BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - A working group of physicans in Western New York is sending a message to teen athletes. The letter opens with, "We may be nearing finish line with Covid, but there is still a distance to go. We need your help."
Thirty two local physicians signed the letter(read below). They want young people to know that they are not immune.
Dr Joseph Chow, Medical Director of Western New York Immediate Care, is part of the working group.
"This is a very dynamic group that has been meeting for the past several months about all things Covid," said Chow. "It's a very targeted message to teens. That's the age group where we are seeing an increase in the Covid positivity rate."
"Some of the messaging out there actually confuses people and we're trying to make recommendations that are clear and not complicated," he said.
The recommendations for high school sports is needed because that age group is experiencing a higher positivity rate. "We're trying to get the rate down with targeted information."
"This is another reminder that Covid is still out there. It's really hitting this age group right now and we're asking them to consider getting the vaccine when it becomes available. In the meantime, wear a mask and still try to avoid close-crowding as best as possible," said Chow.
Other recommendations for teen athletes include:
*Don't go to practice if you have been exposed to someone who is sick.
*Arrive at your competition ready to play. Avoid the locker room.
*When traveling, avoid carpooling with people outside your family.
*When you socialize, do it outside.
Additionally, the letter reminds people that indoor sports are riskier. It says be extra careful if you play hockey or wrestle.
