Health Guidelines
COVID-19 (BA.5), July 26
Cases of COVID-19 are once again surging in the U.S., and the BA.5 omicron variant is fueling this latest wave, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Floris-Restoration’s Safety pillar continues to guide our policies and best practices in consult with the Healthy Church Council, VA Department of Health and CDC.
What You Need to Know
The new variant is now causing about two thirds of infections in the US, with cases now rising in almost every state. COVID is contagious with estimates that much of the population has been or will be reinfected with BA5 this summer.
How to Stay Safe
The best way to protect yourself and others is to continue to be aware of the situation. If you’re not vaccinated, get vaccinated. If you’re not boosted and eligible for a booster, get boosted. If you are not sure whether you need a booster, consult your physician for advice.
We ask everyone to continue to follow current COVID-19 preventative measures, including:
- Stay home (adults and children) if you are feeling sick.
- DO NOT attend group activities at church if you are unwell with any infectious condition
- Avoid church group activities if you are at high risk of complications (online services are available)
- People may choose to mask at any time. Learn about CDC mask guidelines.
- Wear a mask with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19
- Practice good hygiene – wash hands, cover mouth when coughing/sneezing, use hand sanitizer, etc.
- Stay up to date on your vaccines and boosters
Masks Optional, Effective March 1
On February 25, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated health guidance that includes new metrics for determining COVID-19 community levels. Based on this new guidance, the current community level is low in Fairfax and Loudoun County.
We are encouraged by the continued decline in COVID-19 cases in our community. However, we are also committed to keeping our church staff, congregation and community safe to worship, learn and work in person.
The decision to wear a mask or not is a personal one, based on many factors. Our Floris UMC/Restoration community has demonstrated our commitment to “live into our values.” We will see our values in action as we treat each other with respect and understanding during this transition.
Children’s Ministry
Our nursery workers will continue to wear masks since they often care for children who can’t receive a vaccine yet. If you have any questions, contact Bill Gray at bgray@florisumc.org or Debbie Lawler at dlawler@florisumc.org
As in-person ministry evolves at Floris UMC/Restoration, we are committed to keeping people healthy. Learn more about our updated guidelines.
Please continue to do your part to maintain a healthy environment by monitoring for illness and staying home when sick.