PactWest Statement

Health & Safety Update

Varsity Spirit is looking forward to an exciting and safe weekend of competition. And nothing is more important to us than the safety of the athletes, coaches, friends and families that attend our events. In light of recent reporting, Varsity Spirit is closely monitoring the situation concerning the potential impact of the Coronavirus and will continue to make decisions based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, local health officials and our event partners.

The following competition precautions have been taken for the event:

  • Oregon Convention Center is closely monitoring the current 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak through updates provided from the WHO (World Health Organization) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to learn from and closely follow their recommendations.
  • The Oregon Convention Center has a liaison that is in contact with Multnomah County to keep us updated on any new information.
  • The Oregon Convention Center will be placing hand sanitizer stands throughout the venue and at all entrances. Convention Center Staff have been directed to disinfect all hard surfaces and maintain a high level of cleanliness.
  • Coaches are encouraged to monitor their athletes for signs and symptoms of illness and to make roster adjustments as necessary to prevent the spread of illness.
  • Teams are encouraged to bring additional hand sanitizer, wipes and tissues.

Preventive recommendations:

Protect yourself against flu and respiratory disease by practicing excellent personal hygiene. Remember to:

  • Stay home and seek medical treatment when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid using your clean hands to turn off water or open the door. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wash or sanitize your hands before eating.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Considering altering greetings (kissing and hugging hello and goodbye) to be cautious.

For additional information visit the CDC website for Coronavirus at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/.