Utah Governor Gary Herbert, along with the Utah Dept. of Health, announced that a ban on dine-in food service would be extended statewide, beginning at midnight on March 18, 2020. Image credit: Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY — Another attempt to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 coronavirus involves every restaurant, bar, and food service establishment in Utah. The Utah Department of Health announced on Tuesday afternoon that it had issued an order to all food establishments in the state to suspend dine-in operations. The order takes effect Wednesday, March 18, at 11:59 p.m.
“With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in our communities,” said Gov. Gary Herbert “we must take quick action to adjust our daily lives and limit the spread of the virus.
“We have not made this decision lightly,” he said.
“I know this will disrupt lives and cost jobs, and for that I’m very sorry.”
“Still,” the Governor continued, “I’m convinced this will save many lives and I’m also convinced that Utahns will step up to help each other and we’ll get through this together.”
Restaurants and other eating establishments do have other options to provide food to customers who want it. They can continue to offer curbside, drive-thru, pick up and delivery options.
Business owners and other affected by these attempts to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19 coronavirus are now eligible for loans from the Small Business Administration. There is more information at this link.
The order issued by the Utah Department of Health also prohibits gatherings of more than ten people. And it recommends that people refrain from visiting long-term and nursing care facilities except to provide critical assistance. This is all in an attempt to avoid unnecessary contact with anybody who may be at greater risk, should they become exposed to the COVID-19 coronavirus.
COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
Resources for more information:
LOCAL:
State of Utah: https://coronavirus.utah.gov/
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Links
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization