ADZG Recommendations for Public Health Precautions for Temple Attendance
“A disciple of the Buddha nurtures life”
On behalf of the Sangha Care Committee, I encourage all Dragons to do their part to nurture and protect our Sangha by following the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control.
WASH YOUR HANDS
UPDATE COVID and FLU VACCINATIONS
ATTEND THE ON-LINE ZENDO WITH US, OR MASK – if you have ANY doubt about illness or exposure
Commons questions people have about preventing the spread of COVID and influenza:
“What if I have the sniffles, but otherwise feel Ok?” Please sit with us virtually at home rather than attending in person. Minor symptoms for you could become something much worse for people who are older and/or have underlying health conditions.
“What’s the big deal? Hasn’t everyone had COVID by now?” The COVID virus, like influenza and the “common cold” are constantly changing, unstable genetic creatures. Because they are constantly evolving, we must remain vigilant and keep up to date on our vaccinations.
“I already had a COVID vaccine and a booster or two. Why do I need to get jabbed again?” Because of the constantly evolving virus, the vaccine is regularly updated in an attempt to reduce spread. To do our part in protecting our Sangha and our other communities, it is essential to receive the updated vaccine to target newer variants. The latest vaccine was released September 1, 2024. If it has been more than two months since your last booster, schedule with your health provider or local pharmacy to receive the lasted vaccine.
“The vaccine doesn’t work. I still got COVID. Twice!” If you are reading this now, it means COVID didn’t kill you, which is the design of the vaccination program. Hospitalizations and death are greatly reduced in people who have an up-to-date vaccine. Prior to the vaccine, I can attest to the horror of having patients dying with very little to do. COVID vaccination has been an enormous change for people in healthcare and our communities.
“Can I get the COVID vaccine and the Flu vaccine at the same time? Anytime in October (annually) is a great time to get caught up and to do our part to protect our communities.
‘If everyone else is vaccinated, why do I need to be vaccinated?” Don’t be that Bodhisattva.
“Do I need to wear a mask?” Even if you feel well and have not had any recent know exposure to someone else who is sick. Wearing a mask is further insurance against the spread of viral illnesses. Choosing to wear a mask is somewhat like deciding on your insurance premium – adding protection.
Hand washing is always a necessary and important way to reduce the spread of disease. Wash you hands when you come to the temple.
May all beings benefit!
Chris Cadman, MD, ADZG Sangha Care Committee (9/2024)