By Saturday afternoon, the Warren County YMCA closed to members and guests “until further notice,” according to executive director Thad Turner.

Turner clarified Saturday that the prudent thing to do for preventative measures is to follow the same guidelines Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf set for the 10-day school closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Initially, after Wolf announced the school closings across the state, the YMCA was going to limit entry to those under the age of 18 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on normal school days.

“The Warren YMCA will be closed to members and guests until further notice,” according to a post at warrenymca.org. “This is for preventative measures for our staff, members and guests. We will meet on Monday, March 16, to decide what we can do for membership and for our programs. Updates will be announced as they become available. Thank you for your understanding and support.”

In addition, the YMCA shared “A Message to Members/Parents”:

“The Warren County YMCA is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone who enters our doors. There are growing concerns about the potential spread of coronavirus, and in an effort to keep you and your family healthy and prevent the spread of germs, we are sharing some important information.

“Your Y is regularly cleaned and special care is taken by Y staff to meet quality standards. Additionally, we are encouraging everyone to do their part in helping prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

“Hand washing remains the most effective method of preventing the spread of germs, including coronavirus. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

“Frequent hand washing and use of antibacterial hand sanitizer are encouraged and practiced throughout our programs by staff and children.

“Additional everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like coronavirus, include:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick;

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;

Stay home when you are sick until you’ve been free of fever for 24 hours. Do not enter the YMCA;

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.”

The Hub at Praise Fellowship Church in Russell also announced a two-week closure beginning this past Sunday evening to encourage social distancing.