Restaurant air-conditioning suspected of spreading Covid-19
A report that has linked the spread of Covid-19 with an air-conditioning unit in a restaurant in China has implications for how restrictions on restaurants and pubs will be eased.
Researchers found that nine people sitting near an infected person in a restaurant were likely infected with Covid-19 via the air conditioning.
The researchers advised restaurants to increase the distance between tables and improve ventilation in order to prevent any potential spread of the virus.
While the research is far from conclusive it has been found that the virus is transmitted through droplets, which will shape the form of any easing of restrictions.
The researchers said that probable ways to limit the spread of Covid-19 would be to cap how long patrons can spend eating, reduce capacity levels, turning off air-con or heating and require employees to wear masks.
Speaking to Business Insider Australia, William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University, said the opening up of venues would happen in a “phased fashion”.
Sheridan Randall, 22nd April 2020
