A number of events and conferences have been postponed or cancelled in Saskatoon over COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
Here is a list of known cancellations or postponements.
Céline Dion postpones spring North American tour
Despite recently testing negative for COVID-19, it seems the new coronavirus will still be taking a toll on Céline Dion‘s touring plans this spring — as it has for many, many other musicians.
On Thursday, the Canadian pop legend made the decision to postpone the remaining concert dates between March and April on the North American leg of her extensive Courage world tour.
Juno Awards
The 2020 Juno Awards have been cancelled as the novel coronavirus continues to spread across Canada.
The biggest night for Canadian music was scheduled to hit the SaskTel Centre stage in Saskatoon, Sask., on March 15.
National Lacrosse League — Saskatchewan Rush
The National Lacrosse League has suspended its season amid the coronavirus pandemic. The league tweeted Thursday morning that games are suspended until further notice.
WHL — Saskatoon Blades
The junior hockey world has joined the professional sports world in pressing pause on its season in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) and Western Hockey League have confirmed that their seasons are on pause “until further notice.”
Saskatchewan NDP
The Saskatchewan NDP said all public gatherings taking place in the next 30 days are postponed, including nomination meetings and fundraising events.
The party said it is also implementing a social distancing policy and any large meetings will take place through telecommunications.
Broadway Theatre
The Broadway Theatre said it is limiting seating at any upcoming events at 250 people.
Theatre officials said the new cap will not affect many of its upcoming events. Those that were over that size are being postponed or rescheduled.
Gardenscape
Prairieland Park has postponed, for the moment, the upcoming Gardenscape show on March 27-29.
Prairieland said it regrets having to make this decision, but said the safety of guests and staff “is of upmost importance.”
HomeStyles Home & Renovation Show
The Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association (SRHBA) has postponed the HomeStyles Home & Renovation Show that was to take place March 20-22 at Prairieland Park.
SRHBA said the health and safety of its members, exhibitors and the community remains a top priority.
Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan
The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) has postponed its policy conference that was scheduled to take place in Saskatoon on March 16-17.
APAS said it made the decision based on other large-scale events in the province being cancelled or postponed due to concerns over the potential spread of COVID-19.
NSBA
The NSBA said it is postponing all events for March, including the 23rd annual Business Builder Awards, to a later date.
The NSBA added all staff will be asked to refrain from attending large community gatherings and events on behalf of the association.
Concerned about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:
Health officials say the risk is very low for Canadians, but they caution against travel to affected areas (a list can be found here). If you do travel to these places, they recommend you self-monitor to see whether you develop symptoms and if you do, to contact public health authorities.
Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing – very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease.
To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. And if you get sick, stay at home.
For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.
—With files from Adam Wallis, Meghan Collie, Slav Kornik, Megan Turcato, Gabriela Panza-Beltrandi and Simon Little.