Delta variant is a “game changer” – Dr. Malcom Butler
information released by Chelan-Douglas Health District
In a recent letter signed by Chelan-Douglas Health Officer Dr. Malcom Butler, the District is recommending all people attending or working at entertainment venues – vaccinated or not – wear masks.
According to Butler, the Delta variant is described as a “game changer” that produces 1,000-times as much virus in the people it infects. “That huge load of virus leads to many more viral particles being exhaled and aerosolized. People are infected more quickly and get sicker faster than in the past,” Butler said.
He said COVID-19 vaccinations offer “excellent protection against severe COVID” but evidence is indicating that some vaccinated people are contagious and spreading the virus. Butler is calling for screening of guests at entertainment venues, though temperature screening is not recommended.
As far as outdoor venues, the health district is recommending screenings and social distancing. For large gatherings where social distancing cannot be maintained, the district recommends masks, regardless of vaccination status.
The Health District issued these new guidelines:
Movie theaters
· Screen guests for COVID exposure or symptoms. Temperature screening is not recommended. (If screening is impractical, at a minimum post signage asking guests who have a known COVID exposure, or any symptoms of COVID, to not enter the theater)
· Universal masking of staff and guests, regardless of vaccination status
· Social distancing between groups in the audience
Indoor live music / theater
· Screen guests for COVID exposure or symptoms. Temperature screening is not recommended. (If screening is impractical, at a minimum post signage asking guests who have a known COVID exposure, or any symptoms of COVID, to not enter the theater)
· Universal masking of staff and guests, regardless of vaccination status o Social distancing between groups in the audience
· Test performers prior to each performance with a rapid antigen test
· Performers in daily productions may be tested 2-3 times per week
· Exclude any performers who test positive
Outdoor live music / theater
· Screen guests for COVID exposure or symptoms. Temperature screening is not recommended. (If screening is impractical, at a minimum post signage asking guests who have a known COVID exposure, or any symptoms of COVID, to not enter the venue)
· Social distancing between groups in audience
· Universal masking in large crowds where social distancing cannot be maintained, regardless of vaccination status.
For additional information, contact the Chelan-Douglas Health District at 509-886-6400 or visit their website.
