A Message to Members/Parents Regarding COVID-19 March 12, 2020
We hear you and are working ensure your health and safety.
The Family YMCA of Black Hawk County is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone who enters our doors. There are growing concerns about the potential spread of coronavirus, and in an effort to keep you and your family healthy and prevent the spread of germs, we are sharing some important information.
Our Y is regularly cleaned and special care is taken by Y staff to meet quality standards in place year-round that keep our facility clean and safe. Additionally, we are taking measures to increase the frequency of our sanitation practices within our facility and programs. We are encouraging everyone to do their part in helping prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
Hand washing remains the most effective method of preventing the spread of germs, including coronavirus. 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. Through frequent handwashing, we protect ourselves AND we also protect each other.
Frequent hand washing and use of antibacterial hand sanitizer are encouraged and practiced throughout our programs by staff and children.
Additional everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like coronavirus, include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick until you’ve been free of fever for 24 hours.
- 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. Please take extra care in disinfecting any machines or equipment you use at the Y.
If you or a loved one are experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough and shortness of breath, please stay home, rest and contact your medical provider. Please do not return to the Y until you are free of fever (100.4 F or greater), signs of a fever, or any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medicines.
While no one can predict with certainty whether the United States will be severely impacted by coronavirus, we are monitoring the situation and preparing for the possibility that our daily program and work routines could be temporarily impacted if the situation significantly worsens. We will keep all members and participants updated with information as it develops.
Additionally, we encourage everyone to regularly check the CDC’s website for important updates and safety information. The American Academy of Pediatrics also has helpful information specific to children and families.
Thank you for your attention to taking extra steps to keep our Y healthy. We take the well-being of our staff, members, and program participants seriously and will act accordingly in however this situation may develop in the coming days and weeks.
Sincerely,
Angie Widner, CEO
