Updated COVID-19 playbooks released for Games

With less than two months to go before the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games, the organizing committee, together with the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee, have published the second edition of playbooks that outline COVID-19 countermeasures for the Games.

Like the first edition, separate versions are available for athletes, team officials and other stakeholders, including media representatives, international sports federations and workers.

The latest updates include information requested by stakeholders and that suggested in feedback during briefings held since October. They include additional information about vaccinations, customs entry requirements, flight booking, pre-departure testing, the pre-Games period, the closed-loop management system, accommodation, transport, food and beverage, screening and testing, health monitoring, close contact management, and the period between the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

A "key points to remember" section is also included to help guide stakeholders through each stage of their Games experience.

"The measures outlined in the playbooks are formulated in accordance with the latest COVID-19 scientific research, expert opinions and the experience of other international competitions," Beijing 2022 vice-president and secretary-general Han Zirong said.

"We believe that these countermeasures can effectively reduce the risk of COVID-19, ensure that athletes and all Olympic and Paralympic participants can safely and conveniently engage in training, competition and work during the Beijing 2022 Games, and protect the health and safety of the local population.

"We hope everyone can strictly abide by the playbooks and work together to deliver to the world a simple, safe and splendid Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games."

Christophe Dubi, the IOC's Olympic Games executive director, said COVID-19 countermeasures put in place after consultation with leading global health experts are key to the safety and success of the Games.

"By creating a secure environment, this will provide a unique Games-time experience, and help athletes fully focus on the fundamentals of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games－sports competition," he said.

Colleen Wrenn, the IPC's chief Paralympic Games delivery officer, said: "With the experience gained in the delivery of major events around the world and the input of medical experts, we are confident the measures outlined in the playbooks will allow participants to take part in the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games while protecting their health."

Games organizers said further policies and briefings will be provided over the coming weeks. In light of the continually evolving global health situation, any additional, necessary countermeasures will be implemented right up to and during Games time.

Xinhua