Moose Jaw, Sask. closing civic facilities due to coronavirus concerns

The City of Moose Jaw is closing all community and recreation facilities until further notice in an effort to try and limit the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Affected facilities include city hall, all arenas including Mosaic Place, the Kinsmen Sportsplex Swimming pool, Yara Centre, Moose Jaw Cultural Centre, Moose Jaw Public Library, and the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery.

All registered recreation program and swimming lessons are cancelled. The city says that customer accounts will be credited for future use or refunds will be issued.

Passes for recreation facilities are also suspended until the facilities can reopen. Members will be credited for the time lost.

People can still use the mail slot at city hall to drop off bill payments and other important documents.

The city is reminding people that online payments are an option on its website.

Moose Jaw Transit will remain operational on its regular schedule until further notice.

Confused 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 Thomas Piller