Karnataka food handlers to be Covid tested every 14 days

Following recommendations from the Covid-19 Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and other experts, the Health Department has made it mandatory to conduct RT-PCR testing for all catering staff every 14 days.

"Given the current Covid-19 situation with opening up of all activities in Karnataka and imminent danger of the second wave of Covid-19, it is important that the food handlers who are working in catering services for functions like marriages, birthdays, social, religious, political gatherings, and in hotels, restaurants, resorts and dhabas take suitable measures to restrict any further transmission of the virus while providing their services", said a circular from Health Commissioner Dr KV Trilok Chandra here on Saturday.

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Food handlers and catering services in containment zones shall remain closed. Only those outside containment zones will be allowed. The physical distancing of at least six feet to be followed as far as feasible. Use of face covers/masks to be made mandatory.

Practice frequent hand washing with soap (for at least 40-60 seconds) even when hands are not visibly dirty. Use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers (for at least 20 seconds) wherever feasible. Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed.

This involves the strict practice of covering one's mouth and nose while coughing, sneezing, with a tissue or a handkerchief or flexed elbow and disposing of used tissues properly. Spitting and blowing of the nose shall be strictly prohibited. Those who prepare food should wear disposable gloves at all times, even during serving food items.