Pubs might not be able to prevent Covid-19 from spreading, claim scientists who studied lockdown measures in Scottish bars.
Researchers from Stirling University examined Covid-19 measures in licensed premises in the first study of its kind in the world and found alarming results.
They say blanket closures, curfews or alcohol sale bans could be more likely to be deemed necessary to control the spread if risks cannot be reduced through support or sanctions for pubs and other premises.
Their findings will inform governments, public health experts and policymakers in the UK and overseas as they consider the impact of the pandemic on hospitality and the risks of lifting restrictions.
The project was conducted in May to August last year in a wide range of licensed premises that reopened following the first nationwide lockdown, operating under Government guidance intended to reduce transmission risk.
Researchers found that despite making physical and operational changes on reopening, practices were variable and discovered a number of incidents of greater concern.
These included close physical interaction between customers and with staff, which often involved alcohol intoxication and were rarely effectively stopped by staff.
Study lead author Professor Niamh Fitzgerald said: “Despite the efforts of licensed premises, and detailed guidance from Government, potentially significant risks of Covid-19 transmission persisted in a substantial minority of observed bars – especially when customers were intoxicated.
“Blanket closures, curfews or alcohol sales bans are more likely to be deemed necessary to control virus spread, if such risks cannot be acceptably, quickly and cost-effectively reduced through support and/or sanctions for operators.”
