The Chinese used 'paper shields' to safely eat and drink during the Covid-19 season

An office worker uses the "paper shield" provided by Meituan. Photo: Meituan

Meituan users in Beijing and Shanghai will receive this special shield when ordering. When opened, it becomes a box with a width of more than 50cm, creating private space. Currently, there are 8 restaurant chains testing this shield when delivering food.

Meituan said the box will help people eat and drink safely without fear of getting saliva from colleagues, especially when people sit to eat in crowded areas such as the canteen, office. Although most people in this country wear masks, they have to take off when eating.

China has seen a sharp decline in Covid-19 infections in recent days. Despite this, WHO has declared Covid-19 a global pandemic.

The world's most populous country has adopted many countermeasures, such as the blockade of the city of Wuhan, and the closure of schools and businesses. The Lunar New Year occasion is extended for 1 more week nationwide. So far, companies have not fully reopened and many are still working from afar.

China is a huge online ordering market. When people have to stay home because of the blockade, food delivery services are even more important. Some restaurants also offer drinks to customers when they order.