Impact of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) on IFA 2020 events

Following the outbreak of COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) in China and the high number of cases across Asia and its spreading to other parts of the world, the IFA Executive Committee discussed together with IFA Vice President and Chairwomen of the IFA Medical Commission Dr. Giana Hexsel the impact of this situation on the upcoming IFA 2020 events e.g. the IFA Fistball World Tour Final (17 – 19 July in Birmingham/Alabama/USA), the IFA Fistball U18 World Championships (23 – 26 July in Grieskirchen/AUT) and the IFA Fistball Women´s World Championships (2 – 7 November in Llanquihue, /CHI).

The situation is evolving and it is still too early to know whether the virus will be contained or continue to spread. For the time being, and until further notice, IFA’s 2020 events will continue as planned. “We are in contact with the local authorities and the local organizing committees and we will continue to monitor the situation. Meanwhile I would like to encourage all the athletes to continue their preparation for the upcoming IFA events”, said IFA President Jörn Verleger after the cancellation of a national Fistball meeting in Switzerland this weekend.

Basic rules to avoid infection are to adopt preventative measures as you would for the influenza virus

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public:

• Wash your hands with soap regularly and thoroughly (30 seconds) followed by use of disinfectant. This measure is particularly important before meals especially in a buffet style service
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with your hands
• Avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections and stay at least two meters away from infected people or people who are showing symptoms (like coughing)
• Avoid mass gatherings
• Ventilate hotel rooms regularly

We would encourage the Fistball Familiy to refer to the following links for the latest information, which may evolve in response to COVID-19 developments;
• Coronavirus 2019 – WHO
• Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) situation report – WHO
• IOC Statement – IOC Medical and Scientific Director, Dr Richard Budgett, advises on the Coronavirus

IFA will put out additional information as the situation develops.