2023 AWHONN Convention COVID-19 Information

COVID-19 Vaccine and Mask Requirements (as of September 7, 2022)

AWHONN is currently reviewing the vaccine and mandate requirements for the 2023 Convention. At this time, we will follow last year’s protocols, outlined below. Updates to these protocols will be made regularly.

All onsite participants are required to show proof of vaccination* at registration, while picking up your name badge. AWHONN will be requesting that participants use a vaccine verification app to share their cards or bring the original or copy of their card. The Clear app has a place in which you can store your card on their app. Other apps, like Walgreens or CVS, may also have areas for this.

• Provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination and COVID-19 booster if appropriate based on vaccination booster timeline
• Wear an approved mask (KN95, N95, or double mask) over nose and mouth at all events
• Wear a color-coded wristband indicating your comfort level of congregating within six feet of other attendees
• Reconsider participation in the event should you feel sick or are experiencing COVID-like symptoms prior to traveling to or while onsite in Aurora

In addition, while onsite:

• Temperature checks will be available
  
• Socially distant seating will be an option  
• It is recommended that attendees avoid physical contact, including hugs and handshakes  
• Please adhere to any signage that encourage physical distancing throughout the Convention space and in common areas.   
• The Resort will conduct enhanced cleaning and disinfection of high-frequency contact points.   
• Attendees are encouraged to wash their hands and/or use sanitizer frequently.  

FAQs

How will meals be handled? 

Pre-packaged items, if available, will be served, as well as buffets, with service from hotel staff, will be a part of the program. Buffet separation guards will be provided to ensure safe service between guests and food. 

Is AWHONN offering onsite testing?   

No – currently, there is no plan to offer onsite testing. For your own peace of mind, we strongly recommend taking a COVID-19 PCR test before you depart for New Orleans and the day after you arrive onsite.  

How will I find out about Convention health updates while onsite in New Orleans?  

To help ensure your personal safety and comfort during Convention, AWHONN is committed to robust and transparent communications during the event. We will use the Convention app to keep participants abreast of any health-related alerts.

*We look forward to welcoming all guests to celebrate our community at this year’s Convention. Participants who wish to receive a medical or religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine will be asked to show the following documentation:

• Religious Exemption: You must hold sincere religious beliefs which are contrary to the practice of vaccination. Your religious leader must provide a religious organization statement as proof of your reason for exemption. You must also arrive at the meeting with proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of arrival. Those granted religious exemptions must wear a mask (KN95 or better) that covers the nose and mouth, at all times, regardless of COVID-19 PCR test results, and a red social distancing wristband.
• Medical Exemption: You must have a medical condition for non-vaccination that is signed by a licensed healthcare provider, not related to the submitter, whose specialty is appropriate to the associated condition. You must also arrive at the meeting with proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of arrival. Those granted medical exemptions must wear a mask (KN95 or better) that covers the nose and mouth, at all times, regardless of COVID-19 PCR test results, and a red social distancing wristband.

If you are requesting an exemption, please indicate that you are not vaccinated when you register. Once onsite, please present your exemption documentation, and negative PCR results, to the AWHONN customer service representative at the Convention registration desk.