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 hundreds of thousands of people breathing the same circulated air and touching the same slot machines could create a viral petri dish. This article will explore the measures casinos are taking to ensure safety 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 operating at a reduced capacity to ensure social distancing can be maintained.
Enhanced cleaning: Casinos have increased their cleaning protocols, with frequent sanitization of high-touch areas such as slot machines and card tables.
Personal protective equipment: Staff are required to wear masks and gloves, and patrons are encouraged to do the same.
Temperature checks: Some casinos are conducting temperature checks on entry.
Is the Air Circulation a Concern?
One of the main concerns is the air circulation in casinos. However, many casinos in Las Vegas have advanced air filtration systems that are designed to remove smoke and other pollutants from the air. These systems could potentially help to reduce the spread of the virus. However, it’s important to note that air filtration alone is not enough to prevent transmission, and other measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing are still crucial.
Are the Measures Sufficient?
While the measures taken by casinos are 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 thus less likely to adhere to social distancing guidelines – makes them a potential hot spot for virus transmission. Additionally, the virus can remain on surfaces for several hours, so even with increased cleaning, there is still a risk.
What Can Patrons Do to Protect Themselves?
Patrons can take several steps to protect themselves when visiting a casino:
Wear a mask: This can help to protect both the wearer and those around them.
Practice good hygiene: Regular hand washing and use of hand sanitizer can help to reduce the risk of transmission.
Maintain social distancing: Try to keep a safe distance from others where possible.
Avoid touching face: This can help to prevent the virus from entering the body.
In conclusion, while casinos are taking measures to reduce the risk of virus transmission, there is still a risk involved. Patrons should weigh these risks before deciding to visit a casino.
