A rural Illinois school had to shut its doors after a COVID-19 outbreak traced back to a crowded indoor bar event in February 2021. The gathering, which saw numerous attendees ignoring mask guidelines, resulted in 46 confirmed COVID-19 cases. It’s astonishing to think that a night out at a bar could lead to school closures for kids, but here we are.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the bar hosted an “opening event” at the beginning of February, with a capacity of 100 guests but minimal mask compliance and ventilation. While the exact number of attendees is unclear, it was later discovered that four individuals present that night exhibited COVID-19 symptoms. Of the 46 infections linked to the event, 26 were patrons, three were staff, and the remaining cases included students and families, one of whom required hospitalization.
As a result, the local school had to close for two weeks, impacting approximately 650 students—equating to 9,100 lost school days. The closure was necessitated by the absence of 13 staff members who were either in isolation or quarantine. Given that this state had previously allowed schools to remain open during the pandemic, the decision to shut down due to this outbreak indicates just how severe the situation was.
The CDC also noted that the actual outbreak might have been larger than reported since many asymptomatic individuals may not have been tested. Ironically, the health agency issued a press release to reiterate a point that many already understood: gatherings in settings where mask-wearing and social distancing are not practiced can significantly increase the spread of COVID-19.
As we continue to navigate this pandemic, let’s remember to wear masks so we can enjoy outings without risking further outbreaks and school closures. It’s a simple request for the greater good.
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Summary
A COVID-19 outbreak in a rural Illinois bar led to a school closure affecting hundreds of students due to the lack of masks and social distancing. The incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with gatherings during the pandemic and the importance of adhering to health guidelines.
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