Health officials concerned about possible COVID-19 spread at Super Bowl gatherings

[KSTP-TV News, February 04, 2021]

Minnesota doctors are concerned Super Bowl Sunday could turn into "Super-Spreader Sunday" if Minnesotans decide to attend large watch parties over the weekend.

During a briefing Thursday, state health officials urged Minnesotans to avoid watch parties, either in homes or at bars.

For people who do plan to host or attend small gatherings, the CDC recommends consistent mask-wearing, opening windows to increase ventilation and bringing your own snacks instead of sharing food. They also urge people to avoid chanting or cheering during the game, saying they should clap, stomp or use noisemakers instead.

"The COVID epidemic is still actively present in all of our communities, so any exposure, any increased crowds either in a bar or at home, is going to increase your risk to acquiring the illness," said Dr. Ryan Else, interim acute care medical officer at Allina Health and vice president of medical affairs for Mercy Hospitals.