FHNN COVID POLICY, Updated July 2024
There is a sharp increase in Covid infection this summer with the Maryland risk currently in the highest risk category. Out of an awareness of our membership's Covid risk and respect for each other, we have updated FHNN’s Covid policies.
FHNN encourages the following:
● Multiple vaccinations including the October 2023-24 Covid vaccine
● Revaccination after 4 months for those 65+ as vaccination benefit wanes
● Masking for indoor group activities, and
● Respect for those requesting the masking of others.
Background
Among Montgomery County Villages, FHNN members have the highest proportion of those aged 75 + and 85+. In addition, our members live in high-rise buildings, a setting that promotes exposure to many people compared to single-family houses.
If one of our under-vaccinated members becomes infected, our member is at relatively high risk for severe Covid, long Covid, hospitalization, and death. High levels of vaccination protection decrease these risks making mild disease symptoms more likely.
Taking Paxlovid within 5 days of diagnosis of infection further decreases risk of severe outcomes.
FHNN Covid Policy
Vaccination: All new members will be asked about their vaccination status. We do not require vaccination but recommend that members follow CDC vaccination recommendations for those 65+. Recommendations include vaccination with the 2023-2024 vaccine and
FHNN Volunteers providing in-person services to our full members should be vaccinated including CDC recommended boosters for those 65+.
Masking: FHNN encourages masking for in-person, indoor events. If either a member or volunteer requests that masks be worn for in-person services such as rides, both parties will wear masks.