FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky’s top health official urged Kentuckians to resist hosting large Super Bowl parties as new cases of COVID-19 continued to decline in the state.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said with the success of the vaccine “we’re hopefully getting to the light at the end of the tunnel for this pandemic” but urged Kentuckians not to gather in great numbers for the annual NFL championship game.
“When people get together in private residences in close proximity, that is one of the single most effective ways to spread this disease,” Stack said during a daily briefing Wednesday. “We can’t afford to have the disease spread now.”
Football fans should stick to the guidelines used over the holidays by limiting gatherings to eight people or fewer along with social distancing and masking, Stack said.
Stack's recommendations are similar to those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They say the safest way to watch Super Bowl LV is from your own home with only those who live in your household.
The public health agency issued a reminder that large gatherings, especially indoors, increase the risk of becoming infected or spreading the coronavirus. That includes watch parties as well as the game itself, which is limiting capacity at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, to 25,000.
For those who choose to watch the game outside their homes, the CDC recommends that people:
- Call the venue to ensure it has steps in place to prevent the spread of the virus
- Follow signage at the venue to allow for social distancing
- Arrive to the venue early to avoid crowding and congested areas
- Avoid using restroom facilities or concession areas at high-traffic times, such as halftime or after the game
- Avoid chanting or cheering — clapping, stomping and artificial noisemakers are OK
- Wear masks when not eating or drinking
- Use touchless payment methods when available
- Limit alcohol consumption, which may make people less likely to follow safety protocols
- Minimize the time spent in a restaurant, bar or concession area
The CDC also discourages attending the Super Bowl if it means traveling from out of town. Airports, public transit and hotels may increase someone’s chances of spreading or getting COVID-19.
The agency suggests that anyone attending a Super Bowl party should bring their own food, drinks, plates and cups; use single-use options for condiments and salad dressing as well as disposable food containers; and avoid self-serve and buffet-style dining.
Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, the CDC notes.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.