The U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Sunday it is closely monitoring the mass protests happening across America after the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man killed in police custody. The remarks come amid concerns that the protests – like other gatherings – could spark additional coronavirus transmission.
“CDC and our federal partners are monitoring closely the demonstrations happening across America. Protests and large gatherings make it difficult to maintain our recommended social distancing guidelines and may put others at risk,” CDC spokesperson Kristen Nordlund said in a statement on Sunday.
“It is too early to know what, if any, effect these events will have on the federal COVID-19 response. Every local situation is different. State and local officials will make decisions to protect public health and safety based on circumstances on the ground,” Nordlund added.
Last week, Dr. Robert Redfield – CDC Director – said protesters should be evaluated and tested for coronavirus.
“We really want those individuals to highly consider being evaluated and get tested,” Redfield said last Thursday at a House Appropriations hearing on the coronavirus response.
“I do think there is a potential, unfortunately, for this to be a seeding event,” he added – especially in metropolitan areas where there has been significant coronavirus transmission.
During an exchange with Rep. Mark Pocan, Redfield also warned the use of tear gas and similar chemical agents on protesters can cause people to cough.
“Definitely coughing can spread respiratory viruses, including Covid-19,” Redfield explained.
Pocan asked Redfield if he had advised U.S. President Donald Trump or worked with law enforcement to discontinue the use of chemical agents against protestors during the pandemic.
“I think you raised an important point. We have advocated strongly the ability to have face coverings and masks available to protesters, so that they can at least have those coverings,” Redfield added.
Asked by Pocan on whether he would recommend against the agents, Redfield stated that he would “pass on this comment to the next Task Force meeting.”
