As hockey season begins, it’s important to remember many of the good hygiene habits instilled during the COVID-19 pandemic are valuable tools in preventing most illnesses and can help ensure a healthy hockey season.

Dr. Michael Stuart, chief medical officer of USA Hockey, recommends several strategies to help prevent the spread of the influenza that should be very familiar:

• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick
• Stay home if you are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer with at least 60-% alcohol
• Use individual water bottles
• Don’t try to “play through” the illness

There are also some habits which were known before the pandemic but have taken on increased emphasis over the past year and a half including:

• Make sure to cover all coughs or sneezes
• Do not share towels or other equipment
• Clean/disinfect equipment after each use
• Reduce/limit time in close, confined spaces

For more recommendations on mitigating risk of COVID-19 and other illnesses from USA Hockey, click here.

Minnesota Hockey wishes all of its participants a safe and healthy season!