2023 ISCS COVID-19 Guidelines

September 13, 2023

At the Inclusive SciComm Symposium, there will be a diverse range of risks and vulnerabilities to COVID-19 within our community. We prioritize the safety and inclusion of every individual, aiming to create an environment where all can participate with confidence and comfort. We will also follow the COVID-19 safety policy outlined by the University of Rhode Island. According to URI policy, masks are not currently required indoors. However, we request and strongly urge all ISCS attendees to wear masks. We also ask everyone to recognize that individual needs may dictate the removal of masks within session settings.

Safety Measures in Place
To enhance safety at the Symposium, we have implemented several key measures:

  • We will provide face masks and hand sanitizer and we recommend using them, particularly in crowded or indoor/classroom settings. 
  • Attendees can pick up a free at-home COVID-19 test on the URI campus in Health Services at the Potter Building, 6 Butterfield Road, Kingston RI 02881. Contact info is health@uri.edu, (401) 874-2246 and https://web.uri.edu/healthservices/contact/
  • Outdoor Socialization: Weather permitting, we strongly encourage socializing outdoors, where the risk of transmission is lower. Enjoy the fresh air and engage in discussions safely.
  • For the safety of all attendees, we request that all in-person attendees conduct a  COVID-19 antigen test before attending the Symposium. 

Personal Responsibility
We ask that all attendees take personal responsibility for their health and the well-being of others. If you are feeling unwell or have been in close contact with a COVID-19-positive individual, we urge you to stay home and participate virtually if possible.

Support for Vaccination
Vaccination is a vital tool for individual and community protection. We encourage all attendees who have been vaccinated or boosted within the past two months to place a provided sticker on their name badges. Your participation promotes transparency and contributes to building a safer environment for all.

Post-Event Testing and Contact Tracing
We urge all attendees to consider post-event COVID-19 testing. Additionally, we ask that you notify us (metcalf@uri.edu) if you test positive within five days of participating in the ISCS in-person events so that we may alert other participants. This measure can help identify and manage potential transmission. 

By collectively adhering to these guidelines, we can establish a safe and inclusive environment where science communication thrives and every participant can engage with confidence and peace of mind. We appreciate your cooperation and dedication to the safety of our community. We look forward to a successful and enriching Inclusive SciComm Symposium.

COVID-19 Symptoms Checklist:

  • Fever or Chills: Do you have a fever (temperature of 100.4°F/38°C or higher) or chills?
  • Cough: Are you experiencing a new or worsening cough that you cannot attribute to another medical condition?
  • Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing: Are you having trouble breathing or experiencing severe shortness of breath?
  • Fatigue: Are you unusually tired or experiencing extreme fatigue?
  • Muscle or Body Aches: Are you experiencing muscle or body aches that are not due to exercise or physical strain?
  • Headache: Do you have a severe or unusual headache?
  • Sore Throat: Is your throat sore, irritated, or scratchy?
  • New Loss of Taste or Smell: Have you noticed a sudden loss of taste or smell, or a change in your ability to taste or smell?
  • Congestion or Runny Nose: Do you have a new or unusual congestion or runny nose?
  • Nausea or Vomiting: Are you feeling nauseous or have you vomited recently?
  • Diarrhea: Are you experiencing diarrhea that is not attributed to another underlying condition?
  • Close Contact with a Confirmed Case: Have you been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days?

If you answer “yes” to any of these symptoms or have been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, it is advisable to prioritize your health and the well-being of others by staying home and participating in the symposium virtually, if possible. If you have severe symptoms or any concerns, please seek medical advice and consider getting tested for COVID-19.

Remember, follow public health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus and protect yourself and those around you.