COVID Information

As long-term advocates of harm reduction, we believe that we can go ahead with getting together this summer if we take steps to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19. It has been difficult to decide how to approach conference planning this year. We are attempting to balance the uncertainty of the course of the pandemic and the desire to accommodate the varying degrees of risk people are willing or able to accept. Accordingly, we have decided on the following COVID-19 safety measures for this summer’s in-person conference.

Masks will be required at all times in the indoor conference spaces,

except when actively eating or drinking and for speakers while presenting. This includes the foyer and hallways. We strongly suggest everyone wear disposable N95, KN95, or KF94 respirators and use a fresh mask at least once a day. We understand that there is no local mandate regarding masks, but as a private event we have decided to take this step to reduce the risk of spreading illness. Violating the masking policy will be considered a violation of the code of conduct.

While we are not requiring on-site testing, we do ask you to test yourself frequently while you are in Las Vegas. Please follow CDC quarantine guidelines and do not attend BSides Las Vegas if you test positive for COVID or are experiencing COVID symptoms

We also strongly encourage participants to be vaccinated. While we are not requiring proof of vaccination to attend, we believe that vaccination, including the recommended booster doses, is one of the most important tools we have in protecting ourselves and our community from COVID-19.

We ask that you use common sense. Please do not attend the conference if you are feeling any symptoms of illness or have reason to believe you have been exposed to someone who is ill. We encourage frequent testing when traveling or around large groups of people. If possible, please take a COVID-19 test in the day or days leading up to the conference. Please wash your hands frequently throughout the conference.

We may revisit this policy based on changing information. In case of changes to this policy, the published policy with the latest date is controlling.

For more information on masking, please see the links below:

https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2110117118

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-we-need-to-upgrade-our-face-masks-and-where-to-get-them/

https://ehs.msu.edu/_assets/docs/don-doff-n95.pdf

https://cybersect.substack.com/p/face-masks-for-defcon