Precautionary Measures in Place for Coronavirus

March 5, 2020

The Claggett Center is closely monitoring the international outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China (COVID-19). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as of March 3, for the general American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low; however, the Claggett team has increased precautionary measures, training, and communication throughout the facility.

Claggett is closely monitoring the situation through updates from the CDC, the Maryland Department of Health, the American Camp Association, along with direct dialogue with Frederick County Health Department officials. Precautionary measures include enhancing onsite communications and signage in restrooms regarding preventative actions (outlined below), placing an increased number of hand sanitizer stations throughout the property, increasing the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched objects, and providing ongoing training for Claggett staff regarding best practices for providing a safe and healthy environment.

This news story was posted on 3/5/20. For the most up to date information, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have there been any cases of COVID-19 at the Claggett Center?

No, Claggett has not had any cases of coronavirus.

Have there been any cases of COVID-19 in Frederick county or surrounding counties in Maryland?

As of March 5, 2020 there were no laboratory-conﬁrmed COVID-19 cases in Frederick County. Three cases were confirmed in Montgomery County.

Where can I learn more about coronavirus?

See the CDC website and World Health Organization for information about symptoms, transmission, and recent cases.
For Maryland-specific updates, see the MDH website.
For an informative guide for communicating with travelers, see U.S. Travel.

What protective or preventative measures are in place at the Claggett Center?

We are in direct dialogue with public health experts to ensure we follow best practices in cleaning, food service, public safety and other relevant areas of operations. Staff receive ongoing training and updates about public health concerns. Claggett has increased its precautionary measures, including increasing the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched objects such as door handles and placing prominent hand sanitizer stations throughout buildings. Claggett has also posted signage to remind attendees of effective handwashing.

How can you protect yourself?

Practice everyday precautions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Do you have any suggestions for how to safely celebrate Holy Communion during this time?

The Right Reverend Eugene Taylor Sutton, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, directs all congregations and worshiping communities to revisit their current liturgical practices in order to maximize the safety of all worshipers. For guidelines for human interaction during worship, especially around the Holy Eucharist, see A Message from Bishop Sutton on Liturgical Practices and the Coronavirus Outbreak.

What other groups will be at Claggett before or during my stay? Are any Claggett guests coming from affected areas?

With respect to the privacy of all guests, the Claggett Center does not share information about individuals or groups. With the situation evolving rapidly, we encourage traveling guests to follow any guidance offered by the CDC and local and state public health authorities. It is important to remember that, while this virus was first identified in China, it is not linked to any ethnic or racial group.

How do I recognize COVID-19?

According to the CDC, symptoms can include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

What should someone do if they have flu-like symptoms and have recently traveled to China, or have had contact with anyone who has traveled to China?

They should seek medical care at a hospital. Before going to the hospital, they (or a designated contact/staff member) should call ahead to tell the hospital about recent travel history and symptoms. Claggett staff can provide masks for individuals to wear on the way to the hospital. The severity of the symptoms would determine the appropriate mode of transportation.

Recommended Hospital: Frederick Memorial Hospital (400 W 7th St, Frederick, MD 21701), is 20 minutes away. It is open 24 hours a day.

If the hospital determines that the individual has the virus, the Frederick County Health Department will become involved and begin an investigative process in collaboration with the Claggett Center. They will inform Claggett staff and help determine appropriate next steps.

Do Claggett employees have access to paid time off if they feel sick?

Yes. Claggett employees, including part-time staff, have access to paid time off.

If COVID-19 becomes a problem at the Claggett Center or in Frederick County, how will staff, event organizers and attendees be alerted?

Relevant updates will be posted to our website and social media pages:

Claggett will communicate with event organizers, partners and other key contacts to relay updates.