Las Vegas Casino Reopenings: Are Gamblers Living in a Viral Petri Dish?
As Las Vegas casinos reopen their doors after the COVID-19 shutdown, many are questioning the safety of these establishments. The concern is that the close quarters, circulated air, and shared gaming machines could create an environment akin to a viral petri dish. This article will explore the measures being taken by casinos to ensure the safety of their patrons and staff, and whether these are sufficient to prevent the spread of the virus.
What Measures are Casinos Taking?
Las Vegas casinos are implementing a variety of measures to ensure the safety of their patrons. These include:
Reduced capacity: Casinos are limiting the number of people allowed in at any one time to ensure social distancing can be maintained.
Temperature checks: Many casinos are conducting temperature checks on all guests and staff upon entry.
Increased cleaning: Casinos have ramped up their cleaning protocols, with frequent sanitization of high-touch areas such as slot machines and card tables.
Hand sanitizer stations: These have been installed throughout the casinos to encourage good hand hygiene.
Face masks: Some casinos are requiring all guests and staff to wear face masks at all times.
Is the Circulated Air a Concern?
One of the main concerns is the circulated air within the casinos. However, many casinos in Las Vegas have advanced air filtration systems that are capable of removing particles as small as the coronavirus. These systems, combined with the increased cleaning protocols, should help to reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
Are the Measures Enough?
While the measures being taken by casinos are certainly a step in the right direction, some experts believe they may not be enough. The nature of casinos – with people in close proximity, often consuming alcohol, and touching shared surfaces – makes them a potential hot spot for virus transmission. Therefore, it is crucial for patrons to also take personal responsibility for their safety, such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and maintaining social distance.
What Can Patrons Do?
Patrons can help to protect themselves and others by:
Wearing a mask: This can help to prevent the spread of the virus, particularly in situations where social distancing may be difficult.
Practicing good hand hygiene: Regular hand washing and use of hand sanitizer can help to prevent the spread of the virus.
Maintaining social distance: Where possible, patrons should try to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
In conclusion, while Las Vegas casinos are taking measures to prevent the spread of the virus, the nature of these establishments does pose a risk. Therefore, it is crucial for patrons to also take steps to protect themselves and others.
