Infectious Disease Duty of Care

For the purpose of this duty of care, infectious disease includes: COVID-19, Influenza, Mpox, etc.

In keeping with the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation's duty of care and our responsibility as an event host, the Foundation is guided by recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and will abide by the legal mandates of Arlington, Virginia at the time of the National Research Blueprint Summit.

Due to the recent CDC guidance update regarding COVID-19, the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation will no longer require proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 tests in order to attend the Chapter Leadership Seminar.

However, all participants are STRONGLY encouraged to (1) stay “up to date” with their COVID-19 vaccinations including any boosters, and (2) obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test or rapid antigen test prior to attending the Event.

Coming together in person has numerous benefits, not the least of which are solidifying and showing care for our community. By attending the Event, participants accept responsibility to act in the best interests of their health, the health of others who attend, and the communities to which they will return after the Event.

As such, participants will:

  •  Follow the CDC guidance, “Isolation and Precautions for People with (or exposed to) COVID-19,” found at
  •  Not participate with COVID-19 symptoms
  •  Depart the Event if COVID-19 symptoms develop

The Foundation reserves the right to update this safety policy should the destination city and state’s COVID-19 community level change. When the community level is “high,” the CDC recommends that people wear masks for all indoor events. We ask that all attendees respect participants’ personal choices with respect to wearing a mask even if others do not wear one. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

The Foundation will continue to monitor and update safety precautions for Events and coordinate with trusted national resources, state and local public health agencies, and venues. The Foundation reserves the right to modify these policies and procedures at any time.

Expected behavior for all attendees:

  • All attendees acknowledge that an inherent risk of exposure to infectious diseases, including COVID-19 exists, in any public place where people are present. 
  • Attendees may be subject to testing when on-site.
  • Face coverings (masks) are optional, however, the Foundation encourages attendees to wear a mask throughout the conference if they are, or someone in their home is, immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness, or if they have a family member who is currently ineligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. All attendees should be mindful and respectful of other attendees' health choices. 
  • Stay Home When Appropriate: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or flu, are waiting for COVID-19 test results, have COVID-19 symptoms, feel sick or unwell, or if have had close contact with a person who has tested positive for or who has symptoms of COVID-19, please do not attend the conference.

Other Expected Behaviors:

  •  All participants are treated with respect and consideration, valuing a diversity of views and opinions
  •  Strive for inclusive, transparent, and open communication
  •  Be considerate, respectful, and collaborative in speaking and listening
  •  Acknowledge the contributions of others
  •  Respect the rules and policies of the Event
  •  Comply with the safety protocols prescribed by the Foundation and venues including protocols in place for all infectious diseases
  •  Respect all participants’ personal choices

*The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation's Infectious Disease Duty of Care is subject to change at any time. All changes will be updated on this page.

This information was last updated 12/5/2022.