Only 15 of the 60,000 attendees at major testing events in the UK, often without face masks or social distancing, have tested positive for coronavirus. The British Department of Health reported this on Friday.
In order to host mass events this summer, Boris Johnson’s government tested nine major events with coronavirus mitigation measures in May. It included three football matches at Wembley Stadium (21,000 spectators), the Brit Awards Gala at the O2 Arena (4,000 spectators), the Billiards World Cup Final and several events in Liverpool, including a 3,000-person rave party and a music festival.
All in attendance had tested negative for Covid-19 in the 24 hours leading up to the events. In some events, a mouth mask and social distancing were not required. After the evening they had to do another PCR test at home. Only 15 of the 60,000 attendees were positive.
The result is consistent with the infection rate among the British population, which, according to the latest data, is 22 infections per 100,000 people.
The Ministry of Health said: “These projects are scientifically designed and monitored to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus to the participants.” This works closely with contestants in the UK to ensure that anyone with a positive test result can be detected.
Since the last coronavirus easing on Tuesday, cultural centers and stadiums in England have allowed up to 1,000 spectators inside and up to 4,000 outside. Social distancing rules still apply at these events.
The government hopes to lift all regulations by June 21 if the pandemic remains under control. However, authorities are concerned about the rapid development of the Indian variety, which is more contagious.
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