SEATTLE — Amid a possible 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in western Washington, the Seattle Sounders FC will be monitoring public health announcements as the season goes on.
However, the season-opener against Chicago Fire FC took place as planned, with the Sounders winning 2-1.
“Nothing is more important than public safety and the well-being of our fans at all Sounders FC events,” the Sounders said in a statement. “Our club is maintaining real-time communication with regional health authorities and Major League Soccer, and the MLS home-opener versus Chicago is scheduled to proceed as planned. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the immediate health risk to the United States public is low. Sounders FC is part of both a regional task force and Major League Soccer’s task force to monitor this developing situation. As matters evolve and more information becomes available, we will continue to provide relevant details to the public.”
CenturyLink Field has installed additional hand sanitizer stations and sanitary wipes will be available at all concession stand locations.
50,000 fans are expected to watch the match. The Sounders are returning to CenturyLink Field for their first home game since their MLS championship win in November.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the immediate health risk to the United States public is low.
What are coronavirus symptoms?
The symptoms of coronavirus are similar to the flu or colds. Symptoms include a runny nose, headache, cough, sore throat, fever and a general feeling of being unwell, according to the Washington State Department of Health.
The severity of symptoms ranges significantly. Some cases are very mild with symptoms similar to the common cold, and some cases are more like severe pneumonia that require hospitalization. Most deaths have been reported in older adults who had other health conditions, according to DOH.
Symptoms may appear as soon as two days after being exposed to the coronavirus or as long as 14 days.
