DOVER, Del - The state of Delaware is shifting testing practices to allow everyone to receive COVID-19 testing without requiring the presence of symptoms. This directive announced by Governor John Carney during Friday's press briefing.
"As we reopen we're trying to test as many people as we can, and just isolate those who are COVID-19 positive," said Carney. He added that more testing sites would be made available throughout the state and that testing those deemed as essential workers is a priority.
Carney looked to the future discussing restrictions that would continue to be eased with Phase 2 beginning on June 15th. Included in these eased restrictions is a return to youth sporting activities with adherence to safety guidelines.
Dr. Karyl Rattay, Director of the Delaware Division of Public Health, explained that different sporting activities would be allowed to resume in phases. Sports are being divided into categories of low, medium, and high risk, based upon varying risks of transmitting COVID-19.
Low and medium risk sports will be allowed to resume on June 15th with adherence to guidelines, including face covering procedures, and implementing distancing for players and spectators. Rattay stated that high risk sports cannot resume until more recommendations become available.
Low risk sports include:
- Tennis
- Golf
- Other sports involving minimum to no contact
Medium risk sports include:
- Volleyball
- Lacrosse
- Field Hockey
- Soccer
- Outdoor basketball
- Other sports that involve moderate contact and/or the frequent sharing of a game ball between players
High risk sports include:
- Indoor basketball
- Football
- Wrestling
- Rugby
- Outdoor basketball