COVID-19 CONSIDERATIONS


SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING THE CORONAVIRUS

Due to the health threat from the Coronavirus, Columbia Lodge
postponed or canceled the usual public events during 2020.   Since then,
many of our activities have resumed, as restrictions were gradually lifted.
We continue to follow the advice of health experts, and will do
what we can to minimize unnecessary exposure for our members and guests.

Be sure to check our calendar for updates by clicking the Calendar tab above.


MARCH 2022 -- WASHINGTON STATE LIFTED THE MASK MANDATE

On March 21, 2022, Washington Governor Jay Inslee lifted the August 23, 2021 Washington State masking mandate for most indoor settings.  
This was based on the continued decline in hospitalizations and deaths from COVID19.
The best scientific assessment of actual data, was that the number of hospitalizations due to COVID-19 remained at an acceptable level at that time,
and treatment facilities in the state were no longer overwhelmed by the pandemic.

Lifting of the face mask mandate does not mean the risk of infection is gone.
COVID will be with us for a long time to come and is likely to remain a serious disease.
Care facilities may continue their mask mandates to protect those who are at greater risk.
Public transportation may require face masks in certain areas.
Places of business may require the use of face masks by staff and customers.
Individuals have the right to wear face masks if they wish to.

JULY 2022 -- MASKING WAS STRONGLY URGED FOR CLARK COUNTY, WA

On July 8, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control raised Clark County's risk level for COVID-19 from "medium" to "HIGH".
because of increased numbers of cases in the County related to the Omicron variant, and
in particular two new and highly transmissible sub-variants known as "BA.4" and "BA.5".
Risk levels reflected the number of COVID-related hospitalizations and hospital occupancy in the County.

OCTOBER 2022 -- MASKING REQUIREMENTS REDUCED

HOWEVER, as of October, 2022, Clark County's risk level for COVID-19 was reduced from "HIGH" to "LOW".
This was likely because of reduced numbers of cases and hospitalizations in the County, and
precautions taken by a well-informed public, as well as the availability of new vaccines
that targeted the "BA.4" and "BA.5" variants.
In 2023 newer variants became prevalent, prompting the release of vaccines that target those.

WHAT DOES A "LOW" RISK LEVEL MEAN FOR YOU?

- Indoor masking, while not mandated, is important in order to reduce spread of the
disease to yourself and others regardless of your vaccination status or prior infection.

- Especially during Flu season and while shopping for the holidays, avoiding crowded settings
where others are not wearing face masks will help you avoid sickness.

- It is important to stay up to date with your vaccinations and boosters.   Statistics show
that you are 16 times more likely to become seriously ill if you are un-vaccinated.

- If you experience symptoms or have been exposed to someone with symptoms, take the home test,
or get to a COVID testing facility.   If you test positive, follow CDC and physician instructions
in order to prevent the spread of your infection to others.

- Unlike the earlier strains of Coronavirus, it is possible to become infected or re-infected
with the newer sub-variants regardless of your vaccination status or infection history.
Generally however, symptoms will be less severe, and hospitalization less necessary,
for individuals with ample immunity.

- For help locating vaccination and testing resources in Clark County, WA, go to the following web page:

COVID Information and Resources in Clark County

WHAT DO THE VARIOUS RISK LEVELS MEAN FOR COLUMBIA LODGE?

Early in 2023 we began resuming our regular activities and events open to the public,
We may have to adapt to higher risk levels in the future by limiting activities that could
spread the disease if risk levels become excessively high.

Starting in February 2023 we retuned to the Sunday Brunches, and these will continue.
Please consider volunteering as a Brunch helper !

Be sure to join us for the weekly Open House and other scheduled activities if you are able and feeling well.
Check our monthly activity calendar by clicking the "Calendar" tab above.
We do not require face masks, but feel free to wear one if desired.   We will provide a mask if you need one.

But if you are not feeling well, or have COVID symptoms, we ask you to please stay home and seek
appropriate medical attention.







This Page revised December 27, 2023