Dept of Health defines those most vulnerable (or at greatest risk) as:
- People 60 and older
- People with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
- People who have weakened immune systems
- People who are pregnant
The current recommendations are that people at higher risk of illness stay away from large group gatherings as much as possible, particularly if those gatherings include close contact with others. They further recommend the following common-sense advice:
- Stay home if you are sick, or have a chronic condition.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick or at high risk for spreading the virus.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Get a flu shot if you haven't already.
The most important thing right now is for everyone to stay safe, to take care of each other, to prepare for events being cancelled or postponed, and to actively monitor the latest WHO, CDC, Canadian Public Health, and State Health Department recommendations.
We need to be especially vigilant about this because although we may not personally be in one of those high-risk categories mentioned above, there is a good chance that we will come into primary or secondary contact with others who are. Our Om Culture dances usually draw in a fairly large contingent of dancers and putting these dances on hold until further notice will hopefully help to keep ourselves, our community, our friends, and our loved ones that much the healthier and safer in the days to come.
So be safe out there. We look forward to starting up the Om Culture dances once the virus has run it’s course and the danger has passed, and we want to see you there as healthy and happy as ever! :)
Ari
