3 Tips for a Safe and Healthy Event
Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, travel and large-scale events are resuming. However, mass COVID testing is decreasing in this new era of vaccines, leaving meeting organizers and companies to decide how to safely run their event – often without the assistance of health experts. Ever-changing recommendations and local considerations can contribute to the challenge of hosting a safe, low-risk event.
Tip 1: Be Consistent
Entry requirements often differ for people based on vaccination status. While so-called ‘breakthrough’ COVID infections in vaccinated people are less common than in those who are not vaccinated, vaccine effectiveness decreases over time. In addition, mask requirements and social distancing measures have been removed, and regionally diverse people are exposed to one another. As a result, the risk of COVID is present for all groups. Consider applying consistent COVID-focused regulations across all groups, especially during the first few days of the gathering to reduce the spread of illness.
Tip 2: Be Prepared
In a short time, we have been trained to be more closely attuned to our health. A sneeze here or a cough there now causes us to pause – am I sick?! People are more likely to seek medical care and COVID testing now, and desire convenience when choosing options. Any time a group of people gather, the risk for any illnesses rises. As we head into flu season, differentiating between illnesses and creating action plans for sick attendees becomes important. Some questions to consider are:
-What is our communication plan with attendees? Can they ask questions about medical assistance, and are we prepared to answer?
-What is our scenario plan for someone who reports a positive COVID case? How does this change if it becomes many people?
-How will we support attendees if they are ill? What are our plans for logistics, travel and communication?
-How can we reduce exposure and liability at our event? Are we prepared to handle serious illness onsite if it were to occur?
Organizations should plan to conduct a thorough analysis and identify areas where a medical or safety event may occur. Scenario planning is highly recommended to team members to feel confident in their role and actions. As always, keep up to date on current public health concerns and policies both nationally and locally.
Tip 3: Know Your Needs
Consider your population and the event local area. Do you expect a younger crowd who may be out on the town, or an older one who will be nearby? Is this an athletic event, a venue that requires a lot of walking, or a seated event? Answering these questions will help you determine your needs. Some examples are:
-A first-aid station with on-site remedies such as hydration and over-the-counter pain medicine will help the young business crowd recover and keep engaged during the event.
-For the older group, falls, blood pressure and diabetes problems are common – a mini pop-up clinic can provide assistance with sprained ankles, blood sugar checks and medical triage may be more appropriate.
-Youth athletic events or professional sports organizations require a variety of sport-specific physicians, athletic trainers and specialized caregivers
Any1Health provides expert consulting services and customized health solutions for events and organizations of all sizes. Learn more about how partnering with us can help you put your best foot forward at your event.
