Buffets recognized as ‘high risk’ for COVID-19

ALBANY, Ga. – Different activities put you at different risks of catching COVID-19, but which ones put you at a higher risk? Members of the Texas Medical Association who made an activity risk chart say that people who dine at a buffet are actually at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 than eating inside of restaurant.

“It’s not buffets, it’s the fact that you are serving yourself,” says BJ Fletcher, owner of BJ’s Country Buffet & BBQ.

Fletcher says that she’s reduced the risk of contracting the virus by changing to a cafeteria-style model.

“I understand that touching them handles is some of the most contagious items you can touch but right now I am no longer a buffet, I am all you can eat, but I’m no longer a buffet.”

To reduce the chances of catching COVID-19 from touching handles, servers glove up and serve guests.

Fletcher has also amplified cleaning and sanitation efforts. Purchasing hand sanitizer, disposable gloves and following CDC recommend guidelines for restaurants.

“You’re standing in one of the safest place to eat in Southwest Georgia.”

And holding that standard comes at a cost.

“We have went up 12% just in supplies not only because we don’t have the volume but because of every guideline we’re having to meet.”

Fletcher has also added a drive-thru where people can pick up their orders. An activity that was ranked in the COVID-19 risk chart as being “low risk.”

“We are taking this serious,” assures Fletcher.

Although buffets as we know them may not be around during this pandemic, country style meals aren’t going anywhere.