Final answer:
Sneeze guards are a protective measure to block the spread of pathogens from sneezes over food and should extend at least 7-8 inches deep and 5 inches wide according to older guidelines, with recent recommendations suggesting up to 15 diameters deep and 8 diameters wide. Proper hygiene, including covering mouth and nose during a sneeze and frequent handwashing, is essential to prevent disease transmission.
Step-by-step explanation:
A sneeze guard should extend at least 7-8 inches deep and 5 inches side-to-side based on older guidelines. However, more recent recommendations suggest as much as 15 diameters deep and 8 diameters side-to-side.
Sneeze guards are important in preventing the spread of pathogens that can be expelled from the respiratory tract during a sneeze. It's crucial to always cover your mouth and nose when sneezing to minimize this risk. Washing your hands frequently, especially after sneezing, is vital in protecting oneself and others from disease. Pathogens - including viruses and bacteria - can survive on various surfaces for substantial periods, which can be combated by regular handwashing.
The use of sneeze guards is part of a broader approach to food safety, along with practices such as handwashing before handling food, rotating pantry items, rinsing produce, and cooking food to appropriate internal temperatures to ensure the elimination of bacteria. These defensive measures are foundational in safeguarding against the spread of foodborne diseases.