“Dining Out” at a Distance: 4 Helpful Tips

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many things about our daily lives have changed. With preventive measures encouraged by health and government officials alike, you’re probably spending most of your time at home and making more meals from scratch. But what if you want to take a break from cooking and pick up food from your local favorite restaurant? Here are our tips for “dining out” at home in the era of social distancing.

In many areas, restaurants and fast food establishments have closed or limited their dine-in services but continue to have delivery, take out, and drive-through menus. If you choose to use one of these options, consider the following to keep yourself safe.

1. Maintain distance from people. If you’re waiting in a line to pick up food, keep as much space between each other as possible. Since businesses are only allowed to operate at 25% capacity, it will be much easier to maintain a distance of at least six feet from other patrons.
2. Wash your hands before and after. We’re still learning how coronavirus spreads, and while it’s unlikely that touching a contaminated surface will put you or others at risk, it is a possibility. Wash your hands before interacting with others, before and after eating, and after you leave to ensure the virus does not have the chance to spread.
3. Wear a mask when not eating. It can stop the spread of germs by adding an extra barrier.
4. Use a credit or debit card. Cash is handled by more people, giving it a greater risk of contamination. Use your credit or debit card to limit the germs you are exposed to and could spread.
5. Still consider a delivery service.If you’re concerned about the spread of COVID-19, you can still support local businesses and help flatten the curve by ordering delivery.

Fearful of food in general? According to the CDC, it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, such as food packaging, but there is no evidence to suggest food itself can be contaminated with the virus. If you have any questions about safe behaviors, talk to the team at St. Luke’s Health. We’re here to help you with expert advice and compassionate care.

Sources:
CDC | Coronavirus FAQs
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