Recently, Taylor Swift fans have stirred controversy by terming COVID-19 as a “souvenir”, following reports that some attendees contracted the disease at Swift’s concerts in Madrid.
In late May, the pop star performed at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid as part of her record-breaking Eras tour, attracting over 130,000 fans. It was reported that some attendees later tested positive for COVID-19. Similarly, after her Paris concert in May, hospital visits surged due to suspected coronavirus cases, leading to online backlash.
Swift’s fan account on Twitter, @taylorswiftes_, conducted a poll asking attendees if they had contracted COVID-19 as a “souvenir” from the Madrid concerts. The post went viral and received numerous responses, with 35.1% confirming they had contracted the virus.
With concerns rising about COVID clusters, especially among younger generations attending mass events, health officials in Spain have noted a steady increase in COVID-19 cases. As the world braces for a potential summer wave, experts stress that crowded outdoor events, like concerts, can still pose a risk for virus transmission.
Dr. Danielle Kelvas, a primary-care physician, emphasized that like influenza, COVID-19’s transmission rates can spike during the winter when people are indoors in close proximity. Despite fans considering COVID-19 a quirky “souvenir” from concerts, it raises crucial questions on public health safety during large gatherings.
While debates continue online on who’s responsible for virus transmission, one thing is clear – staying cautious and informed remains key in navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic.