Conference COVID-19 Information
As excited as we are to gather in person to meet, share, and learn again, the health and safety of all attendees at the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation Scientific and Family Conference remains our top priority.
Between now and the event, we will be closely monitoring our venue’s COVID-19 policies, local, state, and federal government mandates and policy changes, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and other public health information. As understanding around the virus and its variants continues to evolve, we will adjust our approach if needed and keep you up to date with new developments to help ensure a safer and healthier environment and experience for all conference attendees.
March Update:
We understand that some restrictions and mandates around masking are easing and may continue to do so as times goes on, but we also understand the risk that new variants may emerge to reverse some of these changes. We will reassess the status as we get closer to our July conference dates and notify everyone of any changes to the masking policy in advance. Thank you for your understanding around this complex situation for our medically fragile patient community.
May Update:
After watching, waiting, careful consultation with Glut1 Deficiency experts, and following updated guidance and recommendations from public health agencies and officials, we are making changes to our COVID-19 Safety Measures, Guidelines, and Code of Conduct. These changes are in red text below. Please keep in mind that any local, state, or federal mandates that get reinstated may require further revisions to our protocols.
An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. Attendees should be aware that, while the organizers will diligently work to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission on site, it is possible to come in contact with people in airports, public transportation, hotels, and around the conference venue who could potentially carry the virus. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death in some individuals, and according to the CDC, senior citizens and individuals with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.
By attending the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) Conference, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree to abide by our COVID-19 Guidelines and Code of Conduct outlined below for the event. Because we serve a vulnerable medical population, in some situations our COVID-19 policies may be more restrictive than local mandates or current guidelines from the CDC.
We strongly encourage individuals to be tested for COVID prior to traveling to the G1DF Conference. Individuals who test positive should stay home, cancel your registration, and request a refund. During your participation at the G1DF Conference in San Diego, you will be required to support and follow our COVID-19 Safety Measures, Guidelines, and Code of Conduct. These COVID-19 policies are outlined below. For questions regarding these policies, please contact us at info@G1DFoundation.org.
We intend to make every good faith effort to host the 2022 G1DF Conference in person in San Diego. If the COVID-19 situation dramatically worsens so that risks are significantly enhanced or travel is severely restricted, we may be forced to cancel and reschedule the conference. In the event we do need to cancel or reschedule, all conference registration fees will be fully refunded. While most airlines have loosened their cancellation or rescheduling policies, be sure to consider the possibility of conference cancellation when making your travel plans.
2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation Scientific and Family Conference Safety Measures and Guidelines
Conference Space Planning:
On Site Wellness Check Screening and Duty to Self-Monitor:
Conference attendees, exhibitors, vendors, and speakers will be required to perform a wellness check before they receive their event badge and entry into the conference.
The wellness check will include:
Duty to Self-Monitor:
Attendees also agree to fulfill their duty to continue to self-monitor during the course of the conference. Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 or any contagious illness should not further participate in the conference gatherings and should notify conference planners by email.
There will be a supply of COVID-19 rapid tests available, and you may request by email that one be dropped off outside your guest room. You'll be able to watch the recorded conference presentations when they are available on the conference app following the gathering.
Additionally, any attendee who learns during the conference, after registration screening, about prior exposure to COVID-19 that falls under CDC quarantine guidelines should not participate further in the conference gatherings. You may request by email that a COVID-19 rapid test be dropped off outside your guest room, and please refrain from further participation in conference activities. You'll be able to watch the recorded conference presentations when they are available on the conference app following the gathering.
Face Coverings/Masks:
Masks are recommended but not required to be worn in any indoor space that is considered G1DF Conference space. Medical grade masks (such as a surgical mask or KN95 mask) are the recommended mask type and the G1DF will have a supply available at the conference for those who wish to wear one.
Contact and Spacing Measures:
Social distancing practices will be implemented when possible according to all current venue, local, state, and CDC guidelines. While we encourage all attendees to minimize their physical contact with others at the conference, the G1DF will provide three different colored lanyards to choose from to help attendees communicate their level of comfort in interacting with one another.
Hand Sanitizer Stations:
We will have hand washing facilities and/or sanitizing systems easily accessible to everyone throughout the event. Personal size hand sanitizers will also be included with each registration packet.
Health and Safety Signage:
Signage will be placed to remind all attendees to socially distance and frequently wash and sanitize their hands.
Monitoring after Conference:
We ask attendees to self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and contact us if they experience symptoms of COVID-19 within 10 full days after participating in the conference. Registered attendees will be notified of any potential event exposure anonymously.
- Meeting spaces are of ample size to allow for various seating options and spacing based on your comfort level.
- Meeting space doors to the outside will be opened up when possible to allow more fresh air.
- All meals and refreshment breaks will be held outdoors to enjoy the beautiful southern California weather and allow for fresh air and additional distancing.
- Evening socials will be held outdoors at the beach and pool areas of the hotel.
- Exhibitors will have the option to set up on an outdoor terrace between the meeting spaces and the marina, which will allow for easier social distancing and fresh air for exhibitors and booth visitors.
- The hotel has numerous outdoor gathering spaces to use for casual conversations, breaks, recreation, and just enjoying the weather and scenery.
- The hotel design helps avoid the need for congregating in common areas waiting for elevators, etc., and most hallways to guest rooms are open breezeways.
On Site Wellness Check Screening and Duty to Self-Monitor:
Conference attendees, exhibitors, vendors, and speakers will be required to perform a wellness check before they receive their event badge and entry into the conference.
The wellness check will include:
- NO LONGER REQUIRED: a rapid COVID-19 test (provided and performed on site in your guest room)
- confirming that you have not experienced any of the following symptoms of COVID-19 within the past 24 hours:
- fever or chills
- cough
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- fatigue
- muscle or body aches
- headache
- new loss of taste or smell
- sore throat
- congestion or runny nose
- nausea or vomiting
- diarrhea
- confirming that you or those you have close contact with have not tested positive for COVID-19, had symptoms, or knowingly been exposed in the last 10 full days
Duty to Self-Monitor:
Attendees also agree to fulfill their duty to continue to self-monitor during the course of the conference. Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 or any contagious illness should not further participate in the conference gatherings and should notify conference planners by email.
There will be a supply of COVID-19 rapid tests available, and you may request by email that one be dropped off outside your guest room. You'll be able to watch the recorded conference presentations when they are available on the conference app following the gathering.
Additionally, any attendee who learns during the conference, after registration screening, about prior exposure to COVID-19 that falls under CDC quarantine guidelines should not participate further in the conference gatherings. You may request by email that a COVID-19 rapid test be dropped off outside your guest room, and please refrain from further participation in conference activities. You'll be able to watch the recorded conference presentations when they are available on the conference app following the gathering.
Face Coverings/Masks:
Masks are recommended but not required to be worn in any indoor space that is considered G1DF Conference space. Medical grade masks (such as a surgical mask or KN95 mask) are the recommended mask type and the G1DF will have a supply available at the conference for those who wish to wear one.
Contact and Spacing Measures:
Social distancing practices will be implemented when possible according to all current venue, local, state, and CDC guidelines. While we encourage all attendees to minimize their physical contact with others at the conference, the G1DF will provide three different colored lanyards to choose from to help attendees communicate their level of comfort in interacting with one another.
- Red = greet from 6 feet
- Yellow = elbows only
- Green = handshakes and high fives
Hand Sanitizer Stations:
We will have hand washing facilities and/or sanitizing systems easily accessible to everyone throughout the event. Personal size hand sanitizers will also be included with each registration packet.
Health and Safety Signage:
Signage will be placed to remind all attendees to socially distance and frequently wash and sanitize their hands.
Monitoring after Conference:
We ask attendees to self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and contact us if they experience symptoms of COVID-19 within 10 full days after participating in the conference. Registered attendees will be notified of any potential event exposure anonymously.
COVID-19 Code of Conduct
To help protect our attendees and prevent the spread of of COVID-19, the G1DF requires all attendees to adhere to this code of conduct for their participation in the 2022 G1DF Conference.
Before Leaving Home:
Follow guidance from the local health authority for everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of viruses including:
Adherence to onsite guidelines in place at the time of event is required to help better protect all of our attendees. Anyone who willfully does not follow the guidelines will be asked to leave or be removed from the event premises and will not be eligible for a refund on their registration costs.
After the Conference:
If you learn that you have been exposed to COVID-19 at the event, were exposed less than 10 full days prior to the event, develop symptoms of COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19 up to 10 full days after returning home, please contact the G1DF at info@G1DFoundation.org so that we can alert conference attendees of potential exposure anonymously.
Before Leaving Home:
- Follow relevant guidance provided by the WHO, CDC, and/or your local health authority regarding exposure, testing, and quarantine related to COVID-19.
- Adhere to government-issued travel restrictions and guidance issued by the WHO, CDC, and/or the local health authority in the regions you will be traveling to and from.
- Stay home if you feel unwell.
- Stay home if you are knowingly exposed to COVID-19, develop symptoms of COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19 within 10 full days prior to the event.
Follow guidance from the local health authority for everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of viruses including:
- Wash 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 and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Throw unused tissues in the trash.
- Participate in the screening process and self-monitor for symptoms during the conference.
- Adhere to physical distance protocols put in place by G1DF, the venue, or local health authorities.
- Wear a mask if you choose.
Adherence to onsite guidelines in place at the time of event is required to help better protect all of our attendees. Anyone who willfully does not follow the guidelines will be asked to leave or be removed from the event premises and will not be eligible for a refund on their registration costs.
After the Conference:
If you learn that you have been exposed to COVID-19 at the event, were exposed less than 10 full days prior to the event, develop symptoms of COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19 up to 10 full days after returning home, please contact the G1DF at info@G1DFoundation.org so that we can alert conference attendees of potential exposure anonymously.
Attendance Agreement and Waiver of Liability
During the registration process, registering attendees will be asked to affirm that they, and all members in their party, have read and agree to follow the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation’s 2022 Conference Safety Measures and Guidelines and the COVID-19 Code of Conduct and agree to voluntarily enter into this Attendance Agreement and Waiver of Liability.
By and through registering for the Conference, I confirm and attest that I, and all age of majority members in my party (with their agreement and permission), have read the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation 2022 Scientific and Family Conference Safety Measures and Guidelines and the COVID-19 Code of Conduct, agree to adhere to and comply with said Measures, Guidelines, and Code of Conduct, and voluntarily enter into this Attendance Agreement and Waiver of Liability.
Warning of Risks:
The World-Wide Health Organization (“WHO”) and the U.S. Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) declared the novel and very contagious coronavirus, COVID-19, a worldwide pandemic. COVID-19 can cause serious and potentially life-threatening illness and even death; senior citizens and individuals with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. Inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. As such, the G1DF and conference organizers will work diligently to put in place measures and protocols to aid and assist in the prevention of the presence and spread of COVID-19. However, while the Foundation and conference organizers will implement COVID-19 policies, guidelines, and take reasonable steps to prevent exposure, the Foundation and organizers cannot and do not guarantee against COVID-19 exposure and its known related medical issues. As such, all age of majority attendees, by and through their choice to attend the 2022 G1DF Conference, affirm they understand the risks associated with attendance and acknowledge notice of the Warning.
Assumption of the Risks:
By attending the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) Conference, all age of majority attendees, and, if applicable, on behalf of their respective minor children and dependents, affirm they understand the COVID-19 risks associated with attendance, voluntarily assume all risks related to the direct and/or indirect exposure to COVID-19, and agree to abide by the Foundation’s Safety Measures and Guidelines and COVID-19 Code of Conduct. In support thereof, specifically, but not limited to, attendees acknowledge the following:
Liability and Release Waiver & Indemnity:
As an attendee, I understand and confirm that my participation at the G1DF Conference is voluntary. By attending and/or participating, I, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, acknowledge and assume all risks and dangers associated with my attendance and/or participation. I accept full liability for my actions and for those under my care and supervision.
In light of my assumption of the risks and full acceptance of liability, I hereby release the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation, to include its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, organizers, exhibitors, vendors, and agents (hereinafter collectively “G1DF”) from liability for any and all legal and equitable claims arising from harm, injury, or loss, directly or indirectly, related to COVID-19.
I, on behalf of myself, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, heirs, successors, and assigns, hereby voluntarily agree to forever release, waive, discharge, hold harmless, defend, and indemnify the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) from any and all COVID-19 related claims for injury, loss, damages, actions, and causes of actions that arise through any and all manner of suits/court actions, liabilities, losses, damages, judgments, claims, and demands whatsoever in law or in equity including, but not limited to, those arising out of or in any way related to my participation and activities in the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) Conference.
Based upon the foregoing, by and through registering, attending, and/or participating in the G1DF Conference, I, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, hereby execute and put into effect my agreement, acceptance of liability, liability release, and my duty to indemnify the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF).
Choice of Law, Jurisdiction, and Venue:
All parties agree that any and all legal and equitable claims, causes of actions, and issues arising in connection with the Attendance Agreement and Waiver of Liability shall be addressed and litigated pursuant to applicable Kentucky law, in the state of Kentucky, and within the jurisdictional limits of Bath County or any appropriate, proper, and lawful state and federal law, jurisdiction, and venue chosen by the Foundation. Attendees waive any rights to assert the doctrine of Forum Non-Conveniens.
Warning of Risks:
The World-Wide Health Organization (“WHO”) and the U.S. Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) declared the novel and very contagious coronavirus, COVID-19, a worldwide pandemic. COVID-19 can cause serious and potentially life-threatening illness and even death; senior citizens and individuals with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. Inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. As such, the G1DF and conference organizers will work diligently to put in place measures and protocols to aid and assist in the prevention of the presence and spread of COVID-19. However, while the Foundation and conference organizers will implement COVID-19 policies, guidelines, and take reasonable steps to prevent exposure, the Foundation and organizers cannot and do not guarantee against COVID-19 exposure and its known related medical issues. As such, all age of majority attendees, by and through their choice to attend the 2022 G1DF Conference, affirm they understand the risks associated with attendance and acknowledge notice of the Warning.
Assumption of the Risks:
By attending the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) Conference, all age of majority attendees, and, if applicable, on behalf of their respective minor children and dependents, affirm they understand the COVID-19 risks associated with attendance, voluntarily assume all risks related to the direct and/or indirect exposure to COVID-19, and agree to abide by the Foundation’s Safety Measures and Guidelines and COVID-19 Code of Conduct. In support thereof, specifically, but not limited to, attendees acknowledge the following:
- Conference participation includes possible exposure to, and illness from, infectious diseases including, but not limited to, COVID-19. While particular rules, guidelines, and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious illness and death does exist;
- Glut1 Deficiency Foundation put in place reasonable preventative measures, guidelines, and policies to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Notwithstanding, attendees are personally responsible their own safety and actions, to include the safety and actions of their respective dependents, while attending the G1DF Conference. It is imperative and expected that all attendees, and their minor dependents, will follow the Safety and Guidelines and COVID-19 Code of Conduct;
- Attendees knowingly, freely, and voluntarily assume all risks, directly or indirectly, related to illness and infectious diseases, to include, but not limited to, COVID-19;
- Attendees, having read and agreed to the Foundation’s Safety Measures and Guidelines and COVID-19 Code of Conduct, and with proper notice through the Foundation’s Warning of Risks, hereby appreciate and acknowledge all risks associated with conference attendance and, with sound-mind, voluntarily assume the risk of injury, harm, loss, and costs associated with attending the G1DF Conference, including any injury, harm, and loss caused by the negligence, fault or conduct of any kind on the part of the G1DF, its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, organizers, exhibitors, vendors, and agents.
Liability and Release Waiver & Indemnity:
As an attendee, I understand and confirm that my participation at the G1DF Conference is voluntary. By attending and/or participating, I, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, acknowledge and assume all risks and dangers associated with my attendance and/or participation. I accept full liability for my actions and for those under my care and supervision.
In light of my assumption of the risks and full acceptance of liability, I hereby release the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation, to include its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, organizers, exhibitors, vendors, and agents (hereinafter collectively “G1DF”) from liability for any and all legal and equitable claims arising from harm, injury, or loss, directly or indirectly, related to COVID-19.
I, on behalf of myself, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, heirs, successors, and assigns, hereby voluntarily agree to forever release, waive, discharge, hold harmless, defend, and indemnify the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) from any and all COVID-19 related claims for injury, loss, damages, actions, and causes of actions that arise through any and all manner of suits/court actions, liabilities, losses, damages, judgments, claims, and demands whatsoever in law or in equity including, but not limited to, those arising out of or in any way related to my participation and activities in the 2022 Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF) Conference.
Based upon the foregoing, by and through registering, attending, and/or participating in the G1DF Conference, I, and if applicable, on behalf of my minor children and dependents, hereby execute and put into effect my agreement, acceptance of liability, liability release, and my duty to indemnify the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation (G1DF).
Choice of Law, Jurisdiction, and Venue:
All parties agree that any and all legal and equitable claims, causes of actions, and issues arising in connection with the Attendance Agreement and Waiver of Liability shall be addressed and litigated pursuant to applicable Kentucky law, in the state of Kentucky, and within the jurisdictional limits of Bath County or any appropriate, proper, and lawful state and federal law, jurisdiction, and venue chosen by the Foundation. Attendees waive any rights to assert the doctrine of Forum Non-Conveniens.
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