If you’re going to an Eagles game this month, bring a mask. Starting Thursday at 12 AM, Philly is once again requiring face masks to be worn indoors unless businesses require proof of vaccination. This is not surprising given the current state of the country. However, let’s take a quick look at some of the data for our city.
New cases per day trending upwards
Ok, looking at the past month, we can see that the number of new cases per day in Philly is rising. The city reported 276 cases today alone. However, the narrative changes quite a bit if we look at the 6-month chart.
Still near all-time lows
Here we see that although cases continue to rise since late July, in the grand scheme of things, Philly is doing relatively well. We’re no where near our peak of 1000+ reported cases a day as seen back in December. Furthermore, the death rate in the city has been consistently flat. Now on to vaccination rates.
70% of adults vaccinated
Philly is above the state average with nearly 70% of its residents 18 years and older receiving at least one dose of the vaccine. So, why are we required to wear masks again? To be honest, I don’t have a problem wearing a mask, especially if it helps to keep kids and the immunocompromised safe. But, who will enforce this mandate?
In addition to the indoor requirement, unseated outdoor gatherings of more than 1,000 people will also require masks. So, if you’re going to an Eagles game, bring a mask, especially if you plan to… stand up, get food, call your girlfriend, or go to the bathroom. As long as we’re seated, COVID can’t get us.
Official statement by the Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles fans tend to be a rowdy bunch. Expecting some Aramark employee that’s handing out $9 cold beers to tell someone to put on their mask is a tall task indeed. I’m sure there will be rule breakers, but remember, kids will also be in attendance. So if you’re planning to go to an Eagles game, bring a mask.
What do you think? Should the Birds require masks at their games, or do you prefer they ask for proof of vaccination instead?
