COVID-19 Update: Local quarantine and face-covering guidance
Many states and localities where the Smithsonian operates are enacting additional restrictions to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Please be aware of these restrictions and rules as you plan your summer vacations or even just go out to run errands.
Quarantine guidance in local jurisdictions: If you are traveling, please stay safe. Smithsonian is aware that some local and state governments, including Washington, D.C. and the state of New York, are instituting self-quarantine restrictions for non-essential travelers entering their jurisdictions from high-risk areas. While planning personal non-essential travel, you should carefully consider the risks before going to a high-risk area.
Please note that the orders do not prevent essential workers from coming to work. If you are an essential worker required to come to the workplace, you are expected to report and should plan accordingly. If you participate in any activity that increases your risk of contracting COVID-19, be especially diligent about following safety precautions at home and in the workplace. If you are quarantined due to a medical reason such as a positive test result, diagnosis of COVID-19 by a physician, or identification as a primary contact of an individual with COVID-19, follow the SI COVID-19 reporting procedures.
The good news is that public health data shows that, no matter where you are, the most effective way to minimize the spread of the coronavirus is by following all of the safety precautions that the Smithsonian has already put in place. It is critical that both at work and in your personal life, you always practice these healthy habits to protect yourself and others:
- be mindful every day of your symptoms and stay home if you are sick,
- stay at least 6 feet away from others,
- wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth, and
- frequently clean your hands.
Now, more than ever, the decisions we make can have significant consequences for our communities when we return. It is important that we make decisions and follow the best practices that support the health and productivity of our teammates and communities.
No matter where or why you travel, when you return, answer these daily health screening questions before reporting to the work place.
Face coverings: Cloth face coverings are required on site at the Smithsonian and in many of the localities where we live and work. Quite literally, face coverings are an added layer of protection. When you properly wear a face covering, you’re limiting the spread of germs from your nose and mouth. This video from the National Institute of Standards and Technology demonstrates the capabilities of face coverings. Even if you are in an area where it is not required, we recommend you keep face coverings with you and wear them whenever you are in public.
Restrictions and guidelines are changing frequently and vary by location. Wherever you go, please review and abide by local restrictions and rules. Also be aware of what restrictions your home locality has in place upon your return. By adhering to the rules, wherever we may be, we’re doing our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect those around us.
As always, you can stay up to date with Smithsonian’s policies related to COVID-19 by visiting this website.
Stay safe and be well,
COVID-19 Response Team
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Posted: 4 August 2020
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