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Aldi making changes in the wake of COVID-19

Posted at 6:06 PM, Apr 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-08 18:18:46-04

RICHMOND, Va. -- Aldi will begin limiting the number of customers allowed inside of the store, enforcing one-way aisles, and checking employees temperatures before work to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The chain announced the changed on Wednesday and said that protective barriers will be installed at checkout and making gloves and masks will be made available to associates who would like them.

Beginning Thursday, April 9, Aldi will limit the number of people inside stores to approximately five customers per 1,000 square feet.

Employees will be stationed outside each store cleaning carts and keeping track of customers as they enter and exit and shoppers will be allowed into the store one at a time.

Aldi also announced that they will be allowing any medical professionals, with identification, immediate access to the front of any lines that may form outside our stores.

We kindly ask customers to limit their shopping to one person per family. We recognize that may not be possible in certain circumstances and will make exceptions for any customer who needs to shop with children, or assist a vulnerable shopper.

One-way aisles will be enforced throughout stores to better manage the flow of traffic and help customers maintain social distance. In-store signage will direct shoppers through the store.

Aldi will also begin taking the temperatures of our store and warehouse employees. In addition, we will have them answer a few basic health screening questions before reporting to work. Any employee with a fever of 100.0 or higher will be sent home. Employees must be free of all symptoms for at least 72 hours before returning to work.

COVID-19 Precautions

Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.

COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.

Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.