H1N1!

By june - Posted on 08 September 2009

 As we all know, the H1N1 influenza is coming and no one knows at this point how severe the effects will be.  Here are some things we can do to keep our participants safe from H1N1.

 
 

Athletes

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. Especially before eating and after games and practices, and after using communal computers, games, etc.
  • Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you and use it when soap and water is not available.
  • DO NOT share water bottles, even with members of your own club. Also wash your water bottle often with soap and water.
  • Keep your uniforms clean and let your uniform and equipment dry out as best as possible.
  • DO NOT share other personal items such as pillows, headphones, towels, and other toiletries.
  • Make sure you are fully hydrated, eating properly and getting enough sleep. Keep yourself strong.
  • If you are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, sore throat, fever, cough, muscle pain, and weakness let someone know.
  • Get vaccinated, particularly if you travel to other countries!

 

Clubs

  • Encourage frequent hand washing and provide bottles of hand sanitizer.
  • Label all water bottles and teach participants not to share them
  • Eliminate the use of plastic water bottles that can’t be cleaned as thoroughly
  • Avoid shaking hands in the club after bouts for this period
  • Clean masks frequently- they can be put in the dishwasher. Ask volunteers to take them home for cleaning. (No detergent or very hot water)
  • Provide anti-bacterial wipes and teach participants to wipe masks before and after each use
  • Spray masks with Lysol or clean with rubbing alcohol after every practice. Do not use for at least four hours due to fumes which can be toxic.
  • Encourage participants to stay home if they show any sign of cold or flu symptoms

 

Competition Organizers

  • Provide hand sanitizers at each table
  • Discourage the use of public drinking fountains by offering alternate sources of water.
  • Encourage the use of metal water bottles
  • Provide tape and markers at concession stands to mark drinks
  • offer full refunds to athletes who withdraw due to illness.

The Report of Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health on H1N1

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