In:
Journal of Public Health, Oxford University Press (OUP), Vol. 44, No. 2 ( 2022-06-27), p. e203-e210
Abstract:
In February 2021 the “Cortina2021” Alpine World Ski Championships took place in the mountain town of Cortina d'Ampezzo (Italy), thus gaining the definition of “first sporting event of global significance in the time of covid-19 pandemic”. Though the event took place behind closed doors and in a context of national public health restrictive measures, it counted almost 6,000 participants. Methods A rigorous “Covid-19 Prevention and Hygiene Protocol” was drawn up by the local and regional health authorities together with the organizing committee, in order to contain the risk of viral circulation within the venue. Results Overall about 20,000 rapid antigen nasal swabs were performed to screen-detect sars-cov2 cases: only 22 of these were found positive, whereas 25 people were quarantined as close contacts. Conclusions The experience of “Cortina2021” proves that mass gatherings can take place even in times of epidemic threats, if adequately planned and by providing public health recommendations tailored on the viral circulation foreseen by the time the event is due. If new epidemics should arise in the future, hopefully the public health management of “Cortina2021” may be a template for next mass gatherings to be held, as far as possible, despite the viral circulation.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1741-3842
,
1741-3850
DOI:
10.1093/pubmed/fdab351
Language:
English
Publisher:
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Publication Date:
2022
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1497445-9
Permalink