COVID still key priority
CANTON, Ohio — As COVID-19 and Delta variant positives increase across America, the NFL kicked off its first preseason Thursday night since 2019 expecting the usual crowds.
The numbers in the nation are of concern to some, staggeringly disappointing to others, and ignored by many. Within the NFL, though, it must be emphasized that the data is encouraging.
The league says more than 90% of players have either begun or concluded the vaccination process. Nine teams have more than 95% of their players vaccinated, while a total of 27 teams is above 85%.
Yes, there have been some high-profile positive cases, including almost the entire Vikings quarterbacks room, but with league and team personnel required to be vaccinated — it remains optional for players — the league’s medical community is encouraged and optimistic about the upcoming preseason and regular season.
“With regard to results of testing, we’re seeing fewer cases overall with an intake (test) than did in 2020, which is more a snapshot of where everyone is as they gather” at training camps, said Dr. Allen Sills, the league’s chief medical officer. Noting a “lower incidence rate” for positive COVID-19 tests, Sills added that “would suggest the impact of vaccination. I think that is what is driving this lower incidence of cases.
“We are seeing cases among vaccinated players and they are asymptomatic for many; no one is seriously ill. That speaks to effectiveness of the vaccination. There are a very small number of these cases overall.”
With that said, and with the NFL’s adjustments to protocols that now provide more freedom for vaccinated players, should fans worry about disruptions to the 2021 schedule? Remember, the NFL completed its regular season and playoffs on time during the heights of the pandemic, when it knew a lot less about COVID-19 and its variants than it does now.
But the league office also has presented the potential for forfeits if unvaccinated players cause an outbreak on a team that forces postponement and cancelation of games — not a comforting development for fans.
In many portions of the country, government and health officials are suggesting — perhaps soon requiring — face coverings indoors. Pockets of America, some large, have lagged far behind in vaccination rates.
The NFL is aware of these statistics and measures. Its research actually could aid communities in battling a resurgence of the coronavirus, according to Dr. Deverick Anderson of the Duke Center for Antimicrobial Stewardship and Infection Prevention. He also is co-owner of Infection Control Education for Major Sports.
“One of the unique components of the program the NFL has together is really putting themselves at the front edge of the ability to answer a lot of unanswered questions to this point,” Anderson said. “Things that are very relevant not only for just this environment but public health in general.”