Russell Westbrook, James Harden urge safety precautions to fans

With the coronavirus in mind, James Harden wants you to wash your hands, while Russell Westbrook urges listening to health authorities.

Houston Rockets stars and former MVPs Russell Westbrook and James Harden each used their extensive Twitter platforms this weekend to urge safety precautions amid the global coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

NBA games are on hiatus until at least mid-April as U.S. health authorities attempt to get a better handle on the situation. According to The New York Times, data as of Sunday morning showed 2,808 cases of coronavirus in the United States, including 59 deaths.

In response, Westbrook told his 6.3 million followers on Twitter that it’s important to listen to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

“Please everyone, stay safe out there,” Westbrook wrote. “These are crazy times, and we all need to look out for one another.”

Westbrook’s response quote tweeted a message urging Americans to buy loyal as they prepare for the COVID-19 pandemic, given the immense impact that reduced demand can have small businesses.

Meanwhile, Harden’s message included an infographic with details on the importance of repeatedly washing hands with soap and water, or by using an alcohol-based hand rub. “Be safe out here, people,” Harden wrote to his 6.7 million followers, along with a prayer emoji.

Head coach Mike D’Antoni said Thursday that all Rockets players were healthy at that time. While individual workouts are encouraged during the hiatus as players try to stay in basketball shape, team workouts are not expected until the league has a better idea of its potential return date and when the risk of organized gatherings goes down.

For the moment, the Rockets and other players around the NBA appear to be staying home as much as possible, in line with recommendations from health authorities who are attempting to slow the spread of the virus.

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