Waikato Badminton updates regarding Coronavirus / COVID-19 (19 March 2020)
Waikato Badminton continues to monitor the Coronavirus situation closely and is following the Ministry of Health’s advice in consultation with local authorities and other stakeholders including Badminton New Zealand. To check for the latest updates, refer tohttps://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus.
At this stage the Yonex Waikato International 2020 is suspended but all other Waikato Badminton events and programs (ie. gatherings less than 500 people) are continuing with added precautions. We are assessing risk on a case by case basis and will be in communication if any changes are made. Organisations, clubs and individuals can elect not to participate in any activity at their personal discretion.
Whilst we want all participants to enjoy their badminton experience, we also want to ensure everyone has a good awareness of the evolving situation. A fundamental part of this is NOT to attend a badminton session, event or program, and return home if you are sick or even starting to feel sick. It is also a New Zealand government requirement that anyone who has arrived in New Zealand from any other country to self-isolate for 14 days.
If you have any concerns about your health or others, please ensure you immediately inform WBA Staff, seek advice from a suitably qualified medical professional or contact Healthline at 0800 358 5453, and take the necessary precautions to recover and/or self-isolate. In the meantime, the best protection is to do the basics well:
- Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth (as hands touch many surfaces which can be contaminated).
- When coughing/sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue (discard tissue immediately into a closed bin and clean your hands with soap and water).
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly (at least 20 seconds on every part of the hand). Use soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub even if your hands are not visibly dirty.
- Maintain social distancing (at least 1 metre/3 feet distance between yourself and other people if possible). Instead of handshaking/high fives, try other alternative, safe and fun ways to acknowledge other participants without physical contact.
Thank you for your cooperation and please contact us if you have any questions.
Marianne Loh
Chief Executive Officer
P: 021 575 209
E: ceo@waikatobadminton.co.nz
W: www.waikatobadminton.co.nz