The slip-up

YOU REALISE SOMEBODY’S BEEN DOUBLE-DIPPING

THE WORST THAT COULD HAPPEN

If the double-dipper has the norovirus, which can live outside the body for days, you might find yourself with your head over a toilet bowl within a few hours, says pathologist Dr Philip Tierno. But what’s the likelihood that someone with a severe stomach illness would be at a party – much less eating chips and guac?

WHAT WILL PROBABLY HAPPEN

Not a whole lot. If the person contaminating the communal food has – or has recently recovered from – flu, a stomach bug or a virus like strep throat, you could get sick, but it’s not very likely. Most viruses last in food for only a short time, says Tierno, plus the ‘good’ bacteria in your mouth are always ready to defend you and your health.