'We tend to forget we're dealing with humans': Health experts mixed on new NFL COVID-19 protocols

Health experts who reviewed the revised COVID-19 protocols jointly agreed to by the NFL and NFL Players Association held mixed reactions about whether the policy shift represents a progression as the league continues to contend with the ever-evolving pandemic.

On one hand, the revision could present a practical approach to spiking cases as fatigue over testing and preventative measures continues to set in, experts say. On the other, the revised protocols could also have notable blind spots that could lead to significant unintended outcomes, most notably, asymptomatic transmission and the pitfalls of complacency.

No matter the opinion, however, certain caveats remain. As the omicron variant continues to spread throughout the country, accounting for 73% of new cases last week, CDC data revealed, vaccine booster doses and masking remain essential in combating transmission.

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