We have a lot of clients who attend events both for research purposes or to showcase their products and services, on which the recent outbreak of COVID-19, or Coronavirus, is having a big impact.  Indeed, we also have events planned ourselves, so we've been keeping a close eye on developments. I wanted to share the latest advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO), which suggests that there is no reason to cancel or postpone events currently. In a comprehensive 9-page document, the WHO provides a number of recommendations and guidelines for event planners to enable them to safely host their events with appropriate consideration of COVID-19. 

The document includes taking measures such as ensuring there is liaison with local and national public health authorities, considering coronavirus screenings, and undertaking specific and thorough risk assessments to ensure all considerations have been taken into account. 

It also stresses the importance of taking into account the specific features of the event, such as the likely age of attendees and the duration of the event. 

Ultimately, the message is clear: with a little extra planning and specific COVID-19 considerations, there is no reason for events to be cancelled or postponed (at the time of publishing this blog; 04/03/2020). Coronavirus is more likely to be transmitted in public areas such as the workplace, schools or the home, so attendees needn’t fear that they are at an increased risk at UK events. 

Read the WHO guidelines here.