If you care, don’t share, says health official
Evidently reacting to some the most recently confirmed cases of Covid-19 infection in Thailand, the deputy health minister has urged people to not share food, drinks or other personal items and told restaurant managers to adhere to ministry precautions.
Sathit Pitutecha said on Friday (March 13) the country had just gained nearly a dozen more virus infections thanks to people partying with a Hong Kong visitor and freely sharing items by which the disease can be transmitted.
“If you live with or socialise with others, take care of your personal health by not sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses or other personal items with anyone who seems to be showing flu-like symptoms,” he said.
Restaurants must be thoroughly cleaned daily with special attention paid to kitchens, tables, washrooms, doorknobs and plates and cutlery, Sathit said, and food has to be well cooked and clean.
“Any employee who touches the food plates and feels sick has to stay away from the restaurant and see a doctor immediately."
“Restaurants with buffets must provide separate tongs and serving spoons for each diner’s table.”
Dr Panpimol Wipulakorn, director-general of the Department of Health, added restaurant managers and staff who discover that a customer has recently returned from an at-risk locale and not undergone a 14-day self-quarantine must close shop to disinfect the tables, chairs and utensils.
“And people who use food delivery services should check that the food is hot and appears clean and should wash their hands with soap and water before and after eating,” she said.