The Safety of Dining In During the Pandemic

Dining in during the pandemic, despite reassurances from local health authorities, is often met with caution and skepticism. This article explores the issue through the lens of scientific evidence, protocol adherence, and practical solutions that can be implemented.

Understanding the Risk: Beyond Fear

The decision to dine in during the pandemic is not based on hard scientific evidence. Instead, it relies on a 'mathematically calculated risk' that can feel almost overwhelming. This perception is often fueled by fear, a tactic that can undermine the value of rational scientific evidence. For instance, consider a situation where a restaurant is shutdown due to a bacterial outbreak like E. coli. While such incidents highlight the importance of hygiene, they are not direct indicators of the viral transmission risk during the pandemic.

Key Factors Contributing to Insecurity

Lack of Protocol Adherence: Dining in involves the close proximity of individuals, with no guarantees that masks are being worn, or that surfaces and hands are being adequately sanitized. When people eat without mask coverings, they release respiratory droplets, aerosols, and saliva, which can serve as vectors for the virus. Indoor Air Circulation: Dining indoors increases the risk of viral transmission through air recirculation. This means that if one person is infectious, the virus can spread to others within the confined space faster than in an outdoor setting. Outdoor dining is inherently safer due to better air circulation and direct sunlight which can kill the virus. Uncertainties Behind Restaurant Practices: The safety and hygiene measures at a restaurant are often unproven. There is no guarantee that staff consistently follow proper handwashing protocols, and it is unknown whether the kitchen has implemented sufficient disinfection measures.

Proposed Solutions and Precautionary Measures

To mitigate these risks, implement the following measures:

Enforce Seating Protocols: Restaurants should limit the number of people at a table to a maximum of five, and in some regions, like Australia, only two. Ensure that tables are spaced out appropriately to minimize close contact. Promote Outdoor Dining: Dining outdoors is significantly safer due to better air circulation, lower density of individuals, and the natural disinfecting effects of sunlight. Enhance Hygiene Practices: Disinfect surfaces frequently, encourage the use of hand sanitizer, and provide masks for customers and staff. Implement Social Distancing: Implicit in any dining situation is the need for social distancing between individuals, whether in or out of the establishment.

Personal Experience and Cultural Context

In Israel, as of the latest lockdown relaxation, the experience reflects the broader issues discussed. Currently, dine-in options are off the table, with take-outs being the norm. However, as safety restrictions ease, there is anticipation to return to dining establishments with the adherence to 'purple rules' of social distancing. The culture here is deeply rooted in street food and dining al fresco. As the weather permits, restaurant establishments are expected to bring their setups back outside, allowing customers to appreciate food and drinks in a pleasant outdoor setting.

In conclusion, while dining in during the pandemic poses risks, taking pragmatic measures to ensure protocol adherence and promoting outdoor dining can significantly enhance safety. The key lies in creating a balance between enjoying the experience and ensuring public health is protected.