Pizza Delivery Boy Tests Positive for COVID-19: Zomato and Domino’s Issue Clarification

After a pizza delivery boy has tested positive for COVID-19 in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar, 72 homes wherein he had delivered orders while he was asymptomatic have been asked to observe self-quarantine. The restaurant has as of now suspended all operations and 16 of his colleagues have been quarantined as well. Although the delivery of food, essentials and groceries has been allowed to operate by the Government of India, this incident has cast a shadow of doubt on home deliveries.

Zomato, one of the most popular restaurant aggregators and food delivery apps in India, has issued a statement saying “Some of these orders delivered by the restaurant staff were placed on Zomato. We are not sure whether the rider was infected at the time of delivery.” Zomato also clarified that they were doing their best to ensure that customers, delivery partners and restaurant partners remain safe.

The company also claims that they were checking the body temperatures of “tens of thousands” of riders each day to ensure the smooth delivery of essentials. “COVID-19 can happen to anyone, and it is near impossible for all of us to completely isolate ourselves, especially when we need support for outside essentials such as food,” adds Zomato in its statement.

After the incident came to light, Domino’s, one of the most popular pizza joints in India, has issued a clarification as well. “In the interest of customers having full information, we would like to clarify that this incident does to pertain to Domino’s pizza. They have also assured customers that they were taking all necessary precautions to keep customers safe.

Apart from employees in stores being temperature screened every day, Domino’s adds that they were also washing hands for 20 seconds and sanitizing restaurants, bikes, pizza boxes and hot bags every four hours. “We have moved 100 percent delivery to zero contact delivery,” added Domino’s on its social media handle.