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CORONAVIRUS IMPACTING SOCCER

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Diane Scavuzzo

Guest
U.S. Soccer Releases Statement


Every morning the world awakens and looks for news as the spread intensifies. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is creating havoc and serious disruption in the soccer world is potentially on the horizon.

Today it has been reported in the Economist that Coronavirus (COVID-19) is now in 50 countries. Concern over the spread of the virus has impacted the beautiful game. In response to the threat of COVID-19, several of Italy’s Serie A games were recently canceled — and, according to ESPN, others will be played behind closed doors in empty stadiums without fans watching.

As of 2/28/20 there have been 83,694 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide with 2,861 deaths — according to WHO COVID-19 map.

83,694 Cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Confirmed

With youth soccer tournaments, like the Mediterranean International Cup (MIC) in Spain scheduled in the upcoming weeks, the youth soccer world is waiting and watching. Even players with professional trials planned for early spring are being asked to review plans. While we all hope everyone ill recovers quickly, and that life can return to pre-Coronavirus (COVID-19) status there is clear reason for caution.

In response to the increasing number of cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), U.S. Soccer has released a statement. Below is a copy of the text sent by email and what is posted on the U.S. Soccer site.

Dr. George Chiampas, Chief Medical Officer of U.S. Soccer has just released the following information:


With the increasing number of cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) being reported across the world, U.S. Soccer‘s leadership has reviewed and will continue to monitor all international and domestic programming for our National Teams and staff.

As part of this review, we are working closely in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and international agencies including the State Department, USOPC, IOC and FIFA in real time to guide decisions on travel and participation.

Our main priority is the safety and well-being of our players, coaches and staff. For this reason, we have modified some of our travel policies, and are reaffirming best practices for illness prevention.

US-Soccer-.jpg


As members of the U.S. Soccer family, we would encourage you to carefully look at your own programming – including events and travel – and stay in contact with our office as well as your local and state departments of Public Health with further questions. We will endeavor to provide all members with timely and relevant information on Coronavirus.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent the Coronavirus. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed. Everyday preventive actions should be taken, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC and other organizations regarding the Coronavirus:

CDC – Coronavirus Overview

CDC – Travel Recommendations (China)

CDC – Frequently Asked Questions

CDC – Travelers Health

WHO – Advice for Coronavirus

U.S. Department of State – Country Specific Travel Information

USOPC – Coronavirus Update


Top Image Source: WHO on Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)



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