WWHSHL response to Coronavirus - COVID-19
League pauses season, hopes to resume play as soon as it is appropriate.
In view of ongoing developments resulting from the coronavirus, the WWHSHL is announcing that it will pause the 2019-20 final playoff series and reschedule the Awards Gala. The health and safety of our players, coaches, officials, school communities and fans are of the utmost priority. We all have a role to play in keeping people safe.
We have been closely following the guidelines provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the Manitoba Protocol. PHAC currently assesses the health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada and with no cases in Manitoba, we had been preparing for possible developments without taking premature or unnecessary measures. However, with 3 presumptive positive cases in Manitoba now, combined with the cancellation of major sports, school sports and social events in the province and across the country of a certain number, we feel it is no longer appropriate to continue our season currently.
We will continue to monitor this unprecedented situation and protocols issued by health and government authorities and encourage our League community to follow all reasonable protective measures as outlined below. We believe that these measures will help to prevent the greater spread of this virus, while not increasing undue fear or anxiety. Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent, so that we will be able to complete the season and host our awards night. Until then, we thank you for your patience and hope you stay healthy!
Basic Protective Measures against COVID-19
- Stay home if you're feeling sick or unwell (unless directed to seek medical care). If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Phone Health Links: In Winnipeg - 204-788-8200 OR Toll Free MB - 1-888-315-9257
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently (for at least 20 seconds). Clean between fingers, thumbs, nails and jewelry. Rinse and dry - air dry if possible.
- Do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with unwashed hands.
- Practice effective respiratory hygiene. Cough or sneeze into a tissue, or cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow. Dispose of the tissue and wash your hands immediately afterward.
- Avoid handshakes & hugs. Minimize prolonged (more than 10 minutes) and close (less than two meters/six feet) contact between other individuals.
Manitoba Bulletin #8 - Excerpt re Schools
Public health officials are also advising schools and educational institutions to:
• ensure ill staff and students stay home from school, and support those who are self-isolating at home to ensure they do not fall behind in their studies;
• reduce large-group, crowded activities;
• increase desk distance between students; and
• consider implementing virtual or online classrooms, which reduces the number of people in classrooms and increases distance between staff and students.
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