‘Lay low and cool it’: Orange County officials warn against Super Bowl super-spreader events

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — All eyes will be on Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium this weekend- once a COVID-19 testing site- when 22,000 fans will be allowed in for Super Bowl LV Sunday.

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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is pleading with football fans to be careful when they watch the game.

“We want our fans to be safe. They need to be smart. They need to wear their PPE, they need to be gathering in small groups,” Goodell said. “We’re all going to enjoy the Super Bowl a little different this year.”

The #SuperBowl is right around the corner. While watching the game it's important to remember #COVID19 is still in our community.

Catch the game, not COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/EAQGnSNrzi
— FL Health Collier (@HealthyCollier) February 5, 2021

Some states are easing coronavirus restrictions. In Kansas City, bars will be allowed to stay open until midnight, and the city of Tampa is allowing restaurants and bars to remain open for the busy weekend as well.

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It’s the same story in Orlando, but local officials are also asking fans to stay home.

“If you do get together to watch the game, please limit your gatherings to family only,” Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said.

Dr. Anthony Fauci will virtually join Super Bowl LV to express his "profound gratitude" to the 7,500 vaccinated health care heroes the NFL is hosting at the game. #SBLV pic.twitter.com/mwyrza0ApD
— NFL (@NFL) February 5, 2021

While COVID-19 cases across the country are in decline, top doctors are hoping to avoid super-spreader events, urging families to limit interactions to those within your immediate household, and not to host any parties.

“Lay low and cool it instead of going to parties,” Demings said.

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Along with an increased police force, code enforcement will also be out in Orange County to make sure bars and restaurants are following COVID-19 safety protocols.