With the recent mass protests around the country and world, many are concerned about another surge in coronavirus cases. Some are concerned about the lack of social distancing, and asymptomatic carriers who might protest without symptoms. Many protesting are still wearing masks and trying to maintain their distance, however, experts however say a surge in cases is unlikely.
“For those expecting an explosion of cases from protests, I doubt that,” wrote Howard Forman, professor of radiology at the Yale School of Medicine, in a recent tweet. “Outdoor events are seemingly low risk.”
Experts: Protests Unlikely to Cause Huge Wave of COVID Cases
Outdoor events are low-risk with fresh air constantly circulating in the outdoors, and the wind blowing. The virus is not as much of a risk outdoors as it is indoors. Howard Forman also pointed out that the biggest risk at these protests is being arrested. Public health experts have continued to warn people about the risks associated with massive gatherings.
In an article by futurism, they sum it up pretty well,
There are a countless number of questions that remain about the risks involved in gathering in large groups during a global pandemic. But one thing is clear: demonizing protesters for making their voices heard about systemic violence that has endangered Black lives for centuries is the wrong way to go.
Experts: Protests Unlikely to Cause Huge Wave of COVID Cases