Music / May 19, 2021

Gigs without masks no riskier than shopping according to UK trial

Image by Nicholas Green via unsplash
Music / May 19, 2021

Gigs without masks no riskier than shopping according to UK trial

Words: Dylan Murphy

Promising news for the future of live music.

A new UK government trial has revealed that mass events such as concerts can be as a safe as going to shopping or to a restaurant – even without a mask or social distancing.

The news comes via The Times following the trial events at The BRITs in the O2, three FA Cup matches at Wembley Stadium and a 5000 person test event in Liverpool. Those attending the events had to prove they had tested negative before the festivities and were required to take tests after the fact.

The early results from the research programme have been positive, with data suggesting that with screening, improved ventilation and the aforementioned precautions virus transmission can be significantly reduced.

Dua Lipa performing at The BRITs where over 4,000 people were in attendance.

It comes after Barcelona held a test event back in March and pressure grows on the Irish Government to undertake similar approaches to help reopen the live events sector.

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