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October 2, 2023
October 2, 2023
Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.
As we enter the season when the number of COVID cases usually increases, we encourage everyone to get vaccinated or to receive a booster dose and practice good hygiene to help slow the surge of COVID-19. The vaccines have been doing their job, and that has been reflected in the overall reduction of virus intensity and spread. Thankfully, the majority of cases are more mild now, and we were pleasantly surprised to have a low amount of reported infections related to NOTOCON in August.
That being said, COVID is still a threat, and we are still learning about the long-term effects, including but not limited to “long COVID.” We strongly recommend that each individual make informed decisions about how best to protect themselves.
Effective immediately the following changes in U.S.G.L. COVID policy take effect:
New! Local masters are no longer required to consult their assigned S.G.I.G. regarding COVID precautions. S.G.I.G. supervision is discontinued.. The Pandemic Response Team (Formerly COVID Response Team) is still available to answer questions at planning@oto-usa.org
Regardless of county status, local bodies may conduct business as usual. There are no mandatory protocols or required dispensation.
Local Masters, Chapter Leaders, and U.S.G.L. may opt to implement additional measures at their own discretion based on local conditions.
Regarding additional measures, the leadership should consider (1) local transmission rates, (2) status of health care resources (e.g. hospital capacity), (3) advice from state and local public health authorities, and (4) any unique needs of local members.
Individual members may, of course, continue to take additional precautions they deem necessary. Leadership–including but not limited to local body leadership, chapter leadership, and senior initiates–are expected to respect and support their choices and model fraternal behavior.
As always:
The best protection against hospitalization and serious disease are COVID vaccination and the most current available booster. Members are encouraged to speak to their medical care professionals and stay up-to-date with available COVID vaccination.
At home COVID rapid testing is strongly recommended for anyone traveling on Order business.
Members who test positive for COVID or have active symptoms associated with any COVID variant are expected to stay home. If you are sick with any transmissible illness you should always stay home. It is every individual’s responsibility to guard the camp.
The U.S.G.L. Executive will continue to monitor the COVID situation in the United States and issue revised guidance and/or requirements based on applicable data and best practices. This may include additional precautions on the local or national level, including U.S.G.L. events such as A.I.T., Kaaba, and NOTOCON.
Love is the law, love under will.
U.S.G.L. Pandemic Response Team
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