New Zealand has eight confirmed cases of COVID-19. With continued vigilance the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low. The situation is changing rapidly so our recommendation is to keep up with the latest information from the relevant agencies who are leading the Government response, most notably the Ministry of Health.  https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-novel-coronavirus-health-advice-general-public

Wellington North Badminton is following closely with advice from Badminton New Zealand and Ministry of Health, and at this point, we are not looking to alter our current operation with our clubs and programmes. Therefore, all of our club sessions, Shuttle Time Programmes and training sessions will operate as per normal.

However, please take note of the points below issued from the Ministry of Health and DO NOT attend any club sessions, Shuttle Time Programmes or team training if you or anyone in your household is unwell.

Please also note that at this stage Badminton New Zealand programmes and events are continuing with added precautions. This includes the upcoming Shuttle Time Tutor Course and Shuttle Time Student Youth Leadership courses in the Wellington region. We are assessing risk on a case by case basis and making the best decisions we can with the advice from the Ministry of Health, Sport New Zealand and other key stakeholders.

Badminton NZ are working through contingency plans for all Badminton NZ programmes, events, competitions and sanctioned events and will provide more information as we get closer to these initiatives. This is especially the case with the new announcement regarding events and gatherings of more than 500 people. As we monitor the situation we will be in communication as soon as any changes are made.

Prevention – how to protect yourself and others

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or by covering your mouth and nose with tissues.
• Put used tissues in the bin or a bag immediately.
• Wash your hands with soap and water often (for at least 20 seconds).
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
• Avoid personal contact, such as kissing, sharing cups or food with sick people.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs.
• Stay home if you feel unwell.
• Call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 if you have any symptoms and have been to any countries or territories of concern or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19.

Lastly, check out some fun alternatives to the after-game handshakes or high fives!