Abstract
Objective The objective of this report is to describe a SARS-CoV-2 protocol and subsequent positivity rate for athletes and staff participating in combat sports events.
Background Combat sports are among the most challenging to protect against the transmission of communicable diseases. Sports neurologists are often called on to take a leadership role in the safe management of these events. Our team was asked to provide a plan for pre-fight SARS-CoV-2 testing during the recent pandemic. As a result, we were able to successfully host 28 major combat sports events at a single venue with minimal exposure for staff and participants.
Design/Methods Athletes and staff were tested for the SARS-CoV-2 virus with a PCR method. Samples were obtained via nasal swab upon arrival at the host hotel. All participants were then quarantined until the results were available. Those with negative tests were allowed to resume training in isolated pods. All participants were retested within 72 hours of the event. Those who were positive were quarantined off site for up to 2 weeks. Consultation was provided with an infectious disease specialist via telemedicine.
Results A total of 8,135 tests were performed from July 1, 2020 until April 30, 2021 for the purpose of maintaining a safe venue. A total of 1,649 subjects were tested. There were 42 positive tests that resulted in an overall SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate of 0.516% for these events.
Conclusions Our sports neurology team was able to design and implement an effective plan to protect combat sports athletes and staff during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This allowed the safe continuation of 28 events. This protocol design can be implemented when dealing with future outbreaks of communicable diseases.
Footnotes
Disclosure: Dr. Alessi-LaRosa has received personal compensation in the range of $500–$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Mohegan Sun Department of Athletic Regulation. Ms. Hughes has nothing to disclose. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Colonial Cooperative Care. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000–$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for New York Yankees. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000–$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for Western Sports Foundation. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation in the range of $500–$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Mohegan Tribe of Indians Department of Athletic Regulation. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000–$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for Audacy. Dr. Alessi has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000–$49,999 for serving as an Expert Witness for Multiple Entities.
- © 2021 American Academy of Neurology
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