LANSING, N.Y. — The Tompkins County Health Department has announced that nearly 100 people have been ordered into quarantine after an out-of-state hockey tournament. Only one person has actually tested positive for the coronavirus.
Sources confirmed that the Rink in Lansing had been contacted in association with the incident. The health department said that there have not yet been any violations issued as a result of the positive test by the Environmental Health Division.
“The Health Department was notified on Oct. 17 of an individual who tested positive for COVID-19 and had traveled to another state to participate in a tournament,” the health department stated. “This individual is asymptomatic, but could have infected others before entering isolation. As a result, almost 100 people are now in quarantine.”
The health department’s release reiterates the rules related to sports at all risk levels, as defined by New York State. Higher-risk sports include football, ice hockey, basketball and volleyball. The health department also noted that “competitive tournaments of multiple games, meets, matches, or scrimmages requiring travel are not allowed at this time for any risk level of sports,” and applies to travel from one region to another of New York State, or “have an unnecessary overnight stay involved.” Travel to contiguous counties is allowed.
“While I recognize the desire we all have to play sports and conduct normal activities, I want to remind coaches, athletes, and their families that sports have restrictions at this time due to COVID-19,” said Public Health Director Frank Kruppa. “Based on NYS guidance from July 6, 2020, competitive tournaments requiring travel are prohibited. Please be mindful of these restrictions and limit higher risk sports to individual or distanced group training and organized no or low-contact group training.”
The Health Department listed a link in the release detailing local rules regarding sports participation.