Sunday 27 June 2021

Spectating Guinea Pigs?

Some UK scientists are concerned sports fans do not appreciate they will be guinea pigs, when attending events this summer (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jun/27/sports-fans-warned-you-will-be-guinea-pigs-at-summer-events). Up to 60,000 spectators per match, will be allowed into the Wembley (London) stadium for the semi finals and finals of the UEFA competition (soccer). Their numbers will include many unquarantined UEFA 'worthies' from across Europe. Tens of thousands of fans will also be able to view the tennis at Wimbledon (also London). Up to 140,000 spectators, will pay to see formula 1 car racing at Silverstone (near Towcester, Northamptonshire). The worried scientists are concerned that sports fans have not had this 'risky research' explained to them. It seems unlikely that most spectators will appreciate that this 'research' is actually being allowed to 'determine the risks involved in major gatherings, that might be held later in the year'. People signing up to medical trials, are normally given full information before agreeing to participate. The participants in medical trials are generally paid, rather than having to fork out for expensive tickets. The fans should, at least, have to sign disclaimers, after being given a proper risk evaluation!

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