An Irish pub has taken a significant step in its efforts to battle the spread of coronavirus by no longer allowing sing-alongs serenading Neil Diamond’s lyrical sweetheart, Caroline.
Diamond began belting out his triumphant anthem to the reportedly very sweet Caroline in 1969.
The timeless lyrics croon of reaching out and touching hands – and more – and do not bode well with the current guidelines around social distancing.
The song has long been a go-to for intoxicated crowds, belting and acting out Diamond’s words, sharing contact and bodily fluids.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) guidance references airborne ‘aerosol’ droplets that can contain the virus, and can remain suspended in the air for some time. It is prevention or reduction of these particles that brings the recommendations to wear cloth or disposable masks.
Murphy’s Irish Bar, on the Spanish Canary Island of Corralejo, hung the notice informing its jovial customers the song was no longer welcome, at least for now.
