The Saskatchewan Health Authority is warning of an increased risk of COVID-19 variants of concern in Saskatoon and has also sent out an alert regarding patrons who visited Sports on Tap, a Saskatoon bar at Prairieland Park. The SHA says there is an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 variants of concern between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. on April 5th, from 11:25 a.m. to 5:25 p.m. on April 9th and 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 10th. Individuals who were at this location during the specified times must immediately self-isolate for 14 days following the date of exposure. Call HealthLine 811, your physician or nurse practitioner if you develop symptoms; you may develop symptoms from two to 14 days following exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. It is recommended you seek testing immediately and 10 days after your exposure, even if you never develop symptoms.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is strongly urging residents to:

-In public spaces, keep two metres away from others and always wear a mask.

-Avoid gatherings: all gatherings are risky for COVID-19 transmission and indoor gatherings are an especially high risk.

-Keep to your household bubble. Gatherings between households remain a primary driver of transmission.

-Avoid unnecessary travel.

-If you are able to work from home, work from home at this time. If you cannot, ensure that you are following all the guidelines in your workplace. Do not share any food or drink in the workplace, even in break rooms.

-Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth or mask with unwashed hands.

Health officials say variants of concern are highly contagious, transmitting more quickly and to more people within the community. The increased spread of COVID-19 and its variants result in more illness, hospitalizations and deaths. Many of those falling ill are much younger than previously seen during the pandemic.