Pawtucket parade will be held despite virus concerns

PAWTUCKET — The city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will continue as planned Saturday, but city officials will take some extra precautions due to concerns about the coronavirus disease, COVID-19.

The city will provide extra sanitizing stations during the parade and volunteers from the city’s Emergency Management Agency will distribute informational flyers.

“The City asks that everyone wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands,” the city said in a news release. “Please also try to get at least 8 hours of sleep, stay hydrated, try to avoid and reduce stress, eat lots of fresh food and vegetables, and exercise daily.”

The city and parade organizers have been working with the Rhode Island Department of Health to minimize risk, according to the press release. More information is available on the coronavirus, COVID-19, at the Health Department’s website.

The 38th annual parade will begin at noon on South Bend Street near McCoy Stadium.