The World Health Organization says countries may need to make a choice between the two in order to lower the risks, but not all experts are convinced.

Canadians who are looking to meet friends and family at a bar should consider the risk of contracting the coronavirus, deputy chief public health officer Dr. Howard Njoo said.

Authorities are closing honky tonks, bars and other drinking establishments in some parts of the U.S. to stem the surge of COVID-19 infections -- a move backed by sound science about risk factors that go beyond wearing or not wearing masks.