Daily SARS-CoV-2 testing after travel-related close contact notifications during elite sporting events hosted in the UK: a longitudinal study.

Abstract

Isolation requirements for COVID-19 close contacts risked discouraging elite athletes and support staff from travelling to international sports events hosted in the UK during 2021.

Objectives: The purpose of this study, in collaboration with the UK Health Security Agency, was to develop and implement a risk assessment and workplace daily testing approach in elite sporting events, for individuals who would otherwise be excluded by quarantine.

Methods: Longitudinal study of athletes and staff identified as close contacts during travel (ie, flights, train) to specific international sports events. A risk assessment was undertaken, and participants were categorised as at 'low' or 'high' risk of developing SARS-CoV-2 based on their exposure circumstances. High-risk individuals remained in 10-day isolation, whereas those of low risk underwent daily symptom and lateral flow testing, enhanced workplace mitigation and selected work activities were permitted.

Results: Of 29 514 event personnel, 202 travel-related close contacts were reported to the study team, of which 126 were eligible from 40 events in 7 sports. Of the individuals assessed, 105 (83.3%) were classified as low risk, while 21 (16.7%) were classified as high risk. No low-risk individuals tested positive in over 280 rapid antigen tests.

Conclusion: International sports events rely on athlete and support staff availability, with economic consequences of event cancellation or postponement. Our study showed no detection of SARS-CoV-2 in low-risk close contacts, and enabled their sustained participation. This multidisciplinary intervention appears to have been effective, enabling large-scale event continuation, while minimising risk to athletes, employees and the wider public.