Since the start of the global pandemic, mass gathering events have been put on hold to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Raves, music festivals, sports events, and cultural happenings from around the world have been prohibited from taking place.
As social distancing and lockdown regulations begin to ease, scientists want to study what would happen if mass gatherings were to return today. To do this, they will be conducting an experiment consisting of a live concert and a gathering of 4,000 people. German pop star Tim Bendzko has volunteered to perform at the event.
Volunteers aged 18 to 50 will be required to test for COVID-19 48 hours before the event takes place. Those selected for the observation will receive FFP2 filter face mask to wear during the show. Fluorescent hand sanitizer will also be given to concert-goers to determine which surfaces and areas are often touched. Lastly, all participants will be given an electric tag to determine the distance, time, and frequency of contact between other volunteers.
Scientists at the University of Hospital Halle in Germany plan to test three different scenarios. One event will take place just like before the pandemic, but with face masks. Another simulation will observe the entrance and movement of audience members within a controlled environment. The final scenario will examine 2,000 volunteers while social distancing between concert rows.
As the entertainment industry continues to be affected by the global pandemic, scientists hope the results of this experiment can determine ways to reduce contamination during social gatherings. Although these events are sure to return, scientists hope to find new ways to guarantee the safety of attendees.
H/T IFL Science