The NFL carried out a series of improved procedures Thursday for groups to follow after direct exposure to the COVID-19 infection, as it navigates an outbreak amongst the Tennessee Titans and prospective transmission to the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings, who have not yet returned a positive test result after playing the Titans last Sunday, used the protocols after reopening their center and practicing Thursday.
1 RelatedThe enhanced protocols consist of 2 day-to-day tests; one is the conventional PCR (nasal swab) test and the other is a POC (point of care) test that returns faster results. All Tier 1 and Tier 2 staff members should evaluate unfavorable on the POC test before entering the facility.
PPE and face masks need to likewise be used by all gamers and coaches on the practice field and gloves should be worn by everyone except quarterbacks on their tossing hand. All meetings should be virtual and there will also be daily deep cleanings of the facility. The protocols also consist of a prohibition on team or gamer events away from the facility.
NFL primary medical officer Allen Sills will identify whether and for how long the post-exposure protocols need to be followed. Whether they are exposed or not, all NFL employees were urged by the memo to “act as if every person you come into contact with has a COVID infection and take appropriate preventative measures.”
On Monday, a number of Las Vegas Raiders appeared at a fundraising event hosted by Raider Darren Waller at a nation club in a Las Vegas residential area. Gamers were seen on video without masks at the indoor event while socializing and talking with visitors, who also werent using masks. The league said it was looking into the event, and the players have actually asked forgiveness.
An overall of 13 Titans staff members, consisting of six players, have actually returned positive tests for COVID-19 in the previous week. The Titans game Sunday versus the Pittsburgh Steelers has actually been delayed and will be rescheduled for later this season.
