Malta FA Statement – COVID-19 precautions

The Malta Football Association is following the directives and precautions issued by the health authorities regarding the COVID-19 virus. The Association is in direct contact with the Ministry of Health to safeguard the health and well-being of its members, employees, and all persons taking part in football activities, including players, coaches, helpers, club officials, stadium personnel and spectators. With reference to the measures announced by the government this afternoon, particularly the one concerning public events involving over 2,000 people, the Malta FA has duly taken note of this. This measure is not expected to impact the domestic football competitions and the international matches in the foreseeable future. So far, all fixtures scheduled for the next seven days will go ahead as planned but the maximum allowed capacity at all stadia will NOT exceed the quota set by the government. The electronic ticketing system at local stadia will be programmed accordingly to ensure compliance. The allocation of stands will be done in accordance with the advice given by the police. Club and stadium personnel must ensure that dressing rooms are aired and cleaned regularly with the appropriate solutions. Team members must refrain from consuming food inside the dressing rooms. Furthermore, avoid skin contact such as handshakes or embracing as a greeting. Any further updates regarding football matches organised by the Malta FA will be published on this website – http://www.mfa.com.mt – in due course. GENERAL PRECAUTIONS · Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and if not available, use alcohol-based hand disinfectant. · Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or inner side of flexed elbow when coughing or sneezing. · DO NOT sneeze or cough into your hands as you may contaminate objects or people that you touch. · Dispose of used tissues immediately in bins; DO NOT leave tissues running around. · Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth before washing your hands. · Keep a one metre distance when talking to someone who is sick. The Association urges everyone to adhere to the instructions and advice given by the Superintendence of Public Health. If anyone has any concerns please call 111 – the new COVID-19 helpline or 21324086 for further advice. The latest updates can also be found on https://covid19malta.info.