Our memes about the threat of coronavirus (above and below) have gone viral and been cited by several websites.
They may be humorous, but make no mistake; this pandemic is no laughing matter.
Virus threat
It has caused death and serious illness, the cancellation of major events, closing of borders and states of emergency in several countries. Click here for how it has affected motorcycling, in particular.
We’re no medical experts, so we reference the World Heath Organisation’s advice for avoiding the threat of coronavirus. Click here for details.
It basically says to wash your hands frequently and avoid crowded areas.
Obviously, if you have any of the symptoms, you should self-quarantine.
But if not, riding should be safe.
After all, riders wear a face mask of sorts and protective gloves, plus riding is a sort of isolation.
Riders also usually head out into the country where there is less chance of big group gatherings.
However, it might be an idea to take a plastic reusable coffee cup with you. Just make sure you fit the lid yourself!
We have not heard of any group rides being cancelled and planning is still ongoing for the Dubbo Rally in May.
UPDATE: The Dubbo rally has now been cancelled.
Ride days
Ride day in SydneyMotorcycling Events Group Australia which operates ride days at Sydney Motorsports Park and Phillip Island says they will go ahead, despite the virus.
They believe that the nature of their ride days makes for a “minimal risk of exposure”. They also supply hand sanitiser and follow WHO advice.
Health tips
So, if you are out riding, here are a few tips to ensure your safety from the virus:
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently;
- Use hand sanitiser frequently (put a small container in your jacket pocket);
- Avoid touching your own eyes, nose and mouth (easy with a helmet on!);
- Avoid physical touching of others, including shaking hands unless you have your gloves on;
- Cover your nose and mouth if coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands immediately after;
- Avoid others who are coughing and sneezing;
- Wear breathing protection such as your helmet;
- Avoid large groups;
- Use your credit card instead of cash when buying fuel and food; and
- Pack your own toilet paper!