H1N1 Flu Information
September 30, 2009

Associations/Leagues,



We have received several inquiries from local associations regarding the impact of H1N1 influenza on sport and specifically ringette participation. I have discussed this issue with Ringette Canada, who in turn have consulted with a medical expert at Dalhousie University who is also actively involved in ringette.



The most important aspects of addressing the spread of H1N1 within ringette are the same basic rules we typically encourage participants to follow to keep the playing environment as safe as possible and the rules used personally to prevent the spread of colds and viruses:



ü Don’t share water bottles



ü Avoid sharing towels or other personal hygiene items



ü Wash your hands frequently with soap and water



ü Avoid coughing into your hands. Instead, cover your mouth with your forearm. Avoid touching your mouth or nose



ü If you are sick (or believe you may be getting sick) avoid practices, games or team/group activities where the chance of spreading your illness to others increases. Coaches should encourage this with all members of their teams, including team staff.





For those who wish to obtain the most current or additional information, we recommended going directly to BC Ministry of Health’s H1N1 Information Center:





http://www.gov.bc.ca/h1n1/index.html