ASRS provides annual meeting health, safety update

As the pandemic continues to create concern with the delta variant of COVID-19 driving a spike in cases, the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) announced it remains committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its upcoming annual meeting, including hosting some activities outdoors when possible.

ASRS will hold its 39th annual scientific meeting Oct. 8-12 at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio, Texas.

According to a statement on its website, the ASRS will be following guidelines provided by the (CDC). It also noted that meeting participants will be required to comply with any federal, state or local health regulations and all government mandates.

The organization also noted online that ASRS COVID-19 health and safety regulations mandate that all attendees be vaccinated. Attendees who are not vaccinated can contact ASRS staff to switch to the virtual meeting option by Sept. 8. Attendees can contact ASRS staff at 321-578-8760 or by email to members@asrs.org.

At the meeting, hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the meeting space and attendees will be encouraged to wash their hands frequently.

Hotel protocols

According to its website, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa is currently operating at normal business levels, with contactless options available for luggage transportation and in-room dining delivery.

As of Aug. 19, the hotel’s website noted that fully vaccinated associates are not required to wear masks or practice social distancing. However unvaccinated associates are required to wear face coverings and adhere to social distancing measures.

The hotel also has increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfection, particularly in high-traffic areas of the property, including restrooms, elevators and escalators.

Moreover, staff will wear personal protective equipment based on the work they are doing as well as local guidelines. The hotel also is utilizing enhanced technologies, including electrostatic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectants, to support its current cleanliness protocols.

Rooms are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each guest, and disinfectant wipes are available in rooms. Housekeeping will be provided upon request to limit potential contact between guests and associates.

ASRS event

The event promises to be a repository of new advancements. The scientific program offers innovations in retina science, clinical practice and surgery with 148 papers, 165 posters, 46 papers on demand and 69 films, as well as ample opportunities for networking and exchanges of ideas and perspectives. 

For more information on the ASRS 2021 annual meeting, visit www.asrs.org/annual-meeting.