October 28, 2020

COVID-19 Infections Following Outdoor Mass Gatherings in Low Incidence Areas Retrospective Cohort Study

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Transmission

Keywords (Tags): transmission

[Pre-print, not peer reviewed] Among 20 counties in the US in which mass-gathering rallies associated with presidential campaigns were held (19 outdoor and 1 indoor) during August-September 2020, the COVID-19 incidence increased from 8.6 per 100,000 capita at the time of the gathering to 12.8 per 100,000 capita 15 days after the gathering (average of 50% increase, range 20% to 380%). In comparison, counties without gatherings had a 2% increase in incidence using a comparison index date (September 15). The authors suggest a need for precautions in mass gatherings, even when outdoors and in areas with a low incidence of COVID-19. [EDITORIAL NOTE: This ecological comparison did not account for potential differences in other infection control measures in place between counties.]

Miron et al. (Oct 27, 2020). COVID-19 Infections Following Outdoor Mass Gatherings in Low Incidence Areas Retrospective Cohort Study. Pre-print downloaded Oct 28 from https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.10.22.20184630