The health and safety of the Special Olympics New Mexico community, including our athletes, families, volunteers, and employees has always been our top priority. We have been closely monitoring information about the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) nationwide and within our state.

Due to recent developments tied to the global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), including a case tied to a U.S. Special Olympics athlete, Special Olympics New Mexico is suspending all sport training and competition activities, as well as fundraising activities (including New Mexico Law Enforcement Torch Run activities) involving our athletes through March 31, 2020, at which time we will reevaluate the situation. Be assured, we will remain in contact with all SONM Area Directors, Heads of Delegation, and coaches to communicate any updates or changes regarding the above.

Our actions and utmost caution is necessary to protect the health and safety of our SONM athletes, and to ensure we are doing everything in our power to prevent the coronavirus and illness from impacting our organization and community.

Resources & CDC Guidelines

• https://cv.nmhealth.org/
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• Steps to Prevent Illness (from the CDC website)
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze & throw used tissues into the trash.

Please share this messaging with your delegations and don’t hesitate to call the SONM State Office if you have any questions.

-Randy Mascorella