Over the past 24 hours there has been an escalation of news from around NZ and the world about sporting/community events playing to empty stadiums, through to the suspension of the NBA season in order to halt player to player virus transmission (plus officials, coaches, management) due to two players (from Utah Jazz) testing positive for this virus.
Given the rapidly changing nature of our country’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, this release has since been superseded with our suspension of all community basketball. Please read our official release from 20 March 2020 for this.
This original release we posted on 13 March 2020 can be read below:
Kia ora Everyone,
We feel that it is important and timely that we affirm the messaging that is coming out from the Ministry of Health around taking personal responsibility for minimising of the spread of this virus in our communities, not only for personal health, but that of others who are vulnerable in our community.
There is now communication from education institutions, health outlets and workplaces that if you are exhibiting any fever, coughs or runny noses (regardless of the origin of this) you are to stay at home until you feel better.
Currently the risk in New Zealand of contracting the virus is low and therefore we take the view that programmes and games at all clubs and schools can continue for the foreseeable future.
If, however, you are exhibiting such symptoms, please in the interests of all others do not attend any Hoops, Miniball or any other Basketball event.
We are following the advice put out by the Ministry of Health, and here is the first place you should check for the latest updates. You can also call the National Telehealth service for free on 0800 358 5453 which is available 24/7.
In the meantime, the best protection is to do the basics well:
If any of you have any concerns please contact any of us.
Ngā mihi
Kind Regards,
Clive Beaumont
General Manager
Canterbury Basketball Association
