Charlottetown closes sports courts

The City of Charlottetown has closed its sports courts, effective immediately, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city announced the closures in a news release Thursday morning. It includes multi-purpose courts and pads, the skateboard park, tennis courts, basketball courts, and the ball hockey rink.

The closure comes on the guidance and recommendations of provincial and federal health officials on COVID-19. It is meant to support physical distancing, a key part of the strategy to reduce the spread of the disease.

The city said residents are still encouraged to exercise regularly, but it noted public health authorities have advised that exercise should be done safely, close to home, and while maintaining a distance of two metres from other people.

Sports fields remain closed due to the condition of the ground. They are still soft during the spring melt.

A decision on whether the fields can be opened during the public health emergency will be made at a later date in consultation with the Chief Public Health Office.

COVID-19: What you need to know

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.

But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.

Health Canada has built a self-assessment tool.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Isolate yourself and call 811. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested. A health professional at 811 will give you advice and instructions.

How can I protect myself?

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean regularly touched surfaces regularly.
• Practise physical distancing.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on the federal government's website.

More COVID-19 stories from CBC P.E.I.