Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. (Proverbs 19:20)
As you are aware, effective May 5, 2023, the World Health Organization declared an end to the global Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19. As such, vaccines will no longer be a REQUIREMENT for conference attendance. * While this change is being made in our public health protocols, the health and safety of all attending the Teaching to Change Lives, Incorporated's (T2CL) WOW 2026 conference remains our top priority. Although the effects of COVID are receding for many into less of an existential threat and more of an accepted undercurrent to daily life, we must continue to utilize wisdom as we gather in communal settings.
Below are some health and safety strategies you should practice to minimize the spread of infection:
Hygiene: Practice good hygiene by covering your coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing your hands often, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Immunizations: it is recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months have an annual flu shot and individuals ages 75 and older, individuals with chronic heart or lung disease, individuals with weakened immune systems and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as severe obesity and diabetes (or as directed by your healthcare professional) get an RSV vaccine.
Spread Prevention: Stay home and away from others (including people you live with who are not sick) if you have respiratory virus symptoms that aren't better explained by another cause. These symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, and headache, among others.
Masking: Masking is recommended for individuals 65 and older, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Now being in the "COVID clear" currently does not absolve us of keeping watch of community health concerns that may arise between now and when we are together in 2026. The World Health Organization reports that the next pandemic is a matter of "when", not "if". Subsequently, we will be sending updates as necessary to ensure we are appropriately and sufficiently implementing protocols that respond to mandates for compliance and promote your safety. * Your affixed signature attests to your understanding that you will be required to comply with all protocols established, including, if necessary, immunization. If your decision is not to comply with any updated mandates, we will be unable to issue a refund. You will, however, be able to transfer payments to someone who is not a registered attendee.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the information herein, please contact our WOW communications and compliance team at wowexperiencet2cl@gmail.com .
Director of Health & Safety, Teaching to Change Lives, Incorporated