Teams on the door at London landmark The Shard have reportedly been testing guests’ temperature before allowing them inside amid panic around the spread of Coronavirus.
New pictures taken by passers-by show a bouncer at the door of the venue’s Bar 31 wielding what is believed to be a thermometer gun, appearing to test people’s temperatures before allowing them to gain access to the bar.
Thermometers such as this come with a built-in infrared sensor that can determine the surface temperature of the skin in a matter of seconds, allowing people to see whether or not somebody is unwell. Normal body temperature for human beings is 37 degrees celcius, with those showing a temperature of 39 degrees celcius believed to have a mild fever and anything above 42 degrees celcius seen as severely dangerous.
On Friday 6 March, revellers at The Shard were left waiting outside, having to first be tested for irregular body temperature before being allowed inside. Bar 31 is the only bar and restaurant at the London tourist attraction that is found on the ground floor.
Bar 31 offers a range of craft beer on tap, as well as a casual food menu which uses produce from Borough Market in its dishes. On the menu, guests can tuck into the likes of nachos and sourdough pizzettas, or they can order cheese and charcuterie boards to share.
Over 200 Britons have tested positive for Coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, so far. The virus has caused global panic and has also had an impact on London’s dining scene, with several high-end restaurants publicly stating that they are suffering financially from the absence of wealthy Chinese tourists in the capital.
If you want to explore more than just The Shard, check out our full list of the best rooftop bars in London.