Updated:
This Statement is based on Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) guidance and will continue to evolve as the COVID-19 situation changes.
The following statement will begin January 1, 2023 for all 2023 ASE Live Courses
ASE strongly encourages all participants (including attendees, faculty, and vendors) to be up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations, but proof of vaccination is not required to attend an ASE in-person course in 2023.
ASE strongly encourages all attendees, faculty, and vendors to wear a face mask at indoor events when not actively eating or drinking. ASE will not require masking for outside events/functions.
ASE is providing the following in partnership with the conference Convention Center and/or hotel(s):
- Hand sanitizer stations positioned throughout the meeting space.
- Disposable face coverings for anyone needing one. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own mask, provided it follows the CDC’s guidelines for wearing masks.
An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. By registering for and traveling to any ASE in-person course, you (and any guests you bring) voluntarily assume all risks related to potential or actual exposure to COVID-19. ASE is not responsible for any COVID-19 related expenses that could be incurred by any participants and/or your guests when traveling to any ASE in-person course (including, but not limited to: extended hotel stays due to quarantine, hospital visits and bills, and other direct medical costs).
Onsite COVID-19 Testing
ASE will have rapid antigen COVID-19 tests available for attendees who wish to take one. It is strongly recommended to test in advance prior to attending any ASE in-person course to help minimize exposure. It is not guaranteed that these rapid antigen COVID-19 tests will be accepted for international travel, please check these requirements prior to travel.
As a participant, we also ask you to practice the following guidelines:
Before Leaving Home
- Be fully vaccinated at least two (2) weeks prior to arriving at the event.
- Follow relevant guidance provided by the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and/or your local health authority.
- Adhere to government issued travel restrictions and requirements issued by the region you will be travelling to and the region you are travelling from.
- Evaluate your own health and that of people you are in close contact with; contact the ASE Meetings Department if you have concerns.
- Stay home if you feel sick and/or are running a fever or experiencing other COVID-19 symptoms.
On-site During the Event
- Wear a face mask while inside the meeting area, unless actively eating or drinking. Be sure to reference the CDC’s site for how to properly wear your face mask. ASE encourages all participants to continue wearing a face mask even when not attending course functions.
- Whether during the meeting or off-site, continue to follow guidance from the CDC, WHO and the local health authority, for everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses including:
- Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your nose/mouth when coughing or sneezing. Throw used tissues in trash.
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Social distancing when possible
Post-Event
Based on current contact tracing advice from many health authorities, if you test positive for COVID-19 up to 10 days after returning home, please contact the ASE Senior Director of Meetings, Jaclyn Levine, directly at JLevine@ASEcho.org. ASE will be required to abide by hotel policies which may require sharing name and contact information of the person who tested positive.