Just when we thought that the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic was behind us, the aggressive and highly contagious Delta variant has swept across the globe, and in many parts of IBEW 1245’s jurisdiction, hospitalizations and fatalities from COVID are now at their highest point since the start of the pandemic.
The data from hospitals and public health officials has proven that the vaccine is highly effective at preventing serious illness, as the vast majority of those who are dying or experiencing severe illness are unvaccinated. Public health experts agree that getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and those around you.
New studies show that it’s possible for vaccinated individuals to have ‘breakthrough infections,’ and they may also show no symptoms but unknowingly carry and spread the Delta variant. This has prompted the CDC to revise its mask recommendations for high-spread areas (including much of IBEW 1245’s jurisdiction), and counties and cities across California and Nevada are once again requiring face coverings in indoor public areas for all individuals, regardless of vaccination status.
As of this writing in early August, the IBEW 1245 Union Hall is open and Solano county has not re-instituted a universal mask mandate. We remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID among our members and staff. Unvaccinated individuals, and those declining to state, must wear their face covering/masks while in our facility. For vaccinated visitors to the union hall, IBEW 1245 recommends (but does not require) a face covering when inside the hall and unable to observe social distancing guidelines. The union will not be requiring universal masking unless/until a government agency (such as the city, county, or state) mandates such requirement.
We take the health and safety of every person associated with Local 1245 very seriously, and individual accountability is expected of each and every one of us. We cannot emphasize this enough – If you or members of your family are experiencing symptoms related to COVID or have tested positive for COVID, stay home.