Despite the recent coronavirus outbreak and infection numbers increasing across the world, there will be no changes to World Curling Federation events including the World Women's Curling Championships in Prince George this month.
Spokesperson Cameron McAllister says the top priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes and officials at each of the 2020 World Curling Championships, but currently the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend any travel or trade restrictions that would impact any of the federation's events.
"Therefore, at this time, all World Curling Federation events will go ahead, and qualified Member Associations will compete, as planned," he says in an email to PrinceGeorgeMatters.
"However, we are in regular communication with the World Health Organization, local health authorities and appropriate sporting authorities and as we consider all possible implications of the spread of the virus and how it may impact on curling this position may be subject to change at short notice."
"We are reviewing all advice on a daily basis and if circumstances should change we will take the appropriate steps on the advice of experts."
MacAllister adds the federation is working with each local organizing committee and the local health authorities for each championship in order to create a plan to reduce the risk of spreading infection and supply numerous facilities for hand washing and sanitizing.
He adds they will also maintain a high standard of cleanliness throughout all competition venues.
"On a call with the World Health Organization, it was made clear that regular hand washing and good cough etiquette are the vital practices that anyone – including athletes, officials and supporters – can adopt to reduce the general risk of transmission of any acute respiratory infections. Therefore, it is vital that everyone coming to our events adopts the following advice":
- Avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment
- Avoid unprotected contact with farm or wild animals
- And people with symptoms of acute respiratory infection practice cough etiquette – maintain distance, cover coughs and sneeze with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands regularly
"Furthermore, it is recommended in case travellers experience any symptoms suggestive of acute respiratory illness either during or after travelling, that they seek medical attention and share their travel history with their healthcare provider."
