With varied concert COVID protocols, health officials urge music lovers to weigh the risks – WCCO
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Live music is back in the Twin Cities. But fans may not be aware that many places have their COVID-19 protocols defined by the artist who comes to town.
Harry Styles fans had to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test for a recent gig at the Xcel Energy Center. No bags were allowed for fewer touch points. Fans had to be masked when not eating or drinking.
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Amy Orstad attended the show with her 16-year-old daughter.
“Harry Styles… is his favorite on the planet,†Orstad said. “I felt really safe. People were following protocol, everyone kept their masks on and were really respectful, and they love him and trust him, I think. “
(credit: Amy Orstad)
Ticket King told WCCO that COVID-19 protocols vary by event, artist and location. The Rolling Stones ‘No Filter’ tour stop in Minneapolis is later this month after being postponed from 2020. The band does not require proof of vaccines or negative testing, but will require masks . Fans can only eat or drink for them.
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Kris Ehresmann of the Minnesota Department of Health said last week there were only two cases of COVID-19 linked to Styles’ concert. She says that a certain responsibility also falls on the viewer. Stay home if you are sick. And if you’re at high risk, weigh the risks.
“You have to really assess, you know, whether or not you want to consider attending an event that maybe doesn’t have as many mitigation strategies in place,”
said Ehresmann. “Nothing is 100% perfect, but by adding multiple layers of protection you increase the chances of not catching COVID. “
Outdoor sites have had a range of COVID-19 protocols. The Basilica Block Party required proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.
Twin Cities Summer Jam didn’t, and there was no mask requirement.
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Experts say the risk of infection is much lower on the outside.