Recently, PM Modi extended the nation-wide lockdown till May 3 as coronavirus cases crossed the 10,000-mark in India. And, while the entire country is staying indoors, people still need to go out to buy essential items. However, it is important that we follow precautionary measures even while buying food and medicines.
According to the Hindustan Times, 72 families in south Delhi had to home-quarantine after a pizza delivery boy tested positive for COVID-19. The boy, who delivered food to the residents, was associated with a famous pizza chain in Malviya Nagar.
As per BM Mishra, authorities immediately quarantined his 17 colleagues as well, reports News18. All of them were sent to the Delhi government’s quarantine facility in Chattarpur. Later, a detailed trail was followed to identify every house the delivery boy went to.
“We have found that 72 houses had taken delivery from that outlet and hence everyone has been told to follow precautionary measures and be under self- quarantine,” BM Mishra, district collector was quoted saying.
The delivery person reportedly had a cough caused by common flu. However, as he didn’t show any signs of recovery, he was sent to a government hospital which is a nodal center designated to treat people suspected to have COVID-19.
The BM said there is no need to panic as all the delivery boys use masks and follow safety measures while executing a delivery. But the decision to send all of them to quarantine was an essential precautionary measure. Also, the restaurant where the rider worked has suspended its operations for 14 days.
Food delivery giant Zomato issued a notice as some of the orders from the outlet were made through them:
A COVID-19 notice from us. pic.twitter.com/Bpp7bzJdQN
— Zomato (@ZomatoIN) April 15, 2020
The delivery boy, who didn’t have any travel history, is now undergoing treatment, reports NDTV. Thankfully his co-workers tested negative. And, others who came in his contact are being monitored on a daily basis. It is important that we only get essential items during these testing times for the safety of everyone around us.