The Tethered Together Covid-19 Vaccination Policy
Covid-19 continues to be a health consideration for our world and community. As such, we will continue to mirror the CDC’s recommendations and require proof of the latest (2024-2025) Covid-19 vaccine to attend Tethered Together. For most folx, that will mean getting vaccinated sometime on or after August 22, 2024 and prior to February 28, 2025 and submitting proof of that via secure form prior to the event (the form will be available closer to the event). Please read on if you have any questions about the policy or you have a unique situation.
In August 2024, Congress voted to end funding for the Bridge Access program which previously provided free Covid-19 vaccines to all US Citizens. Many health insurance providers will still cover the vaccine, however, people who are uninsured or underinsured could have to pay around 200 dollars out of pocket. The CDC has made some funding available to states to help transition into this new reality, however, it is unclear as to when those funds will be available. We recognize that requiring this vaccine may cause additional financial hardship to our attendees. Please be sure to look into how to defray the cost of attending by volunteering and applying for scholarships. To research low and no-cost options in your local area, please visit the link below:
VACCINATION FAQ FOR COMMON SITUATIONS
What if I have recently had covid?
The CDC states:
“You should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine even if you already had COVID-19.
Getting a COVID-19 vaccine after you recover from COVID-19 infection provides added protection against the virus that causes COVID-19.
People who already had COVID-19 and do not get vaccinated after their recovery are more likely to get COVID-19 again than those who get vaccinated after their recovery.” Citation Retrieved Aug 29, 2024
As such, recently having covid will not be an acceptable reason for an exception, unless your doctor indicates that in a note.
When should you wait to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine?
From the CDC’s website:
If you have COVID-19
People who have COVID-19 should wait to get vaccinated to avoid potentially exposing healthcare personnel and others during the vaccination visit. Visit the CDC’s website for more information.
If you have multisystem inflammatory syndrome (doctor’s note required)
Children and adults who have (or have recently had) multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) should wait to get vaccinated until they:
Recover from being sick and
It has been 90 days since they were diagnosed with MIS-A or MIS-C.
What if I am allergic to the vaccine/medical conditions prevent me from getting vaxed?
If you have a medical reason why being vaccinated will be detrimental to your health, you will need a doctor’s note from a medical doctor (MD) or Nurse Practitioner that indicates that you have been advised not to receive the vaccine. It does not have to indicate why, just that you have been advised not to get the vaccine. These requests will be responded to on a case by case basis and require you to notify Skyla at [email protected] of your situation prior to February 28th, 2025 or fill out our secure form emailed to attendees 1/13/2025. If you are requesting an exemption, we suggest that you complete paperwork prior to February 1st, 2025 as these may require additional information and processing time and several steps. Please DO NOT send medical documents via email. We will arrange for your documents to be securely viewed via a form or other method TBD. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE DOOR.
If you are cleared to attend you will need to:
- Remain masked the entire convention other than when eating
- Check in with registration daily with a picture of a negative test result
Failure to comply with these specialized policies will result in you being removed from the event without refund.
How far ahead of the event do I need to be vaccinated?
According to the CDC, most vaccines take a couple of weeks to reach full effectiveness. As such, the latest you may be vaccinated to attend Tethered is Friday, February 28th, 2025. Please do not wait until the last minute and then ask for an exception.
How can I find proof of vaccination?
If you are vaccinated at a pharmacy/doctor’s office, you should take a picture of your vaccination paperwork after you receive your vaccination. This must have your name (that you registered with), the date of the vaccination, and what vaccination you received. Many states maintain records of vaccinations, Google your state and “vaccination record system” to see what your options are.
Is a negative test required?
No, unless required by exemption.
Are masks required?
No, but anyone who would like to wear a mask is encouraged to do so.
Do I need to provide other records of immunizations other than the 2024-2025 covid-19 vaccination?
No, please do not send other records or previous covid vax records, this makes processing take longer.
I am coming to Tethered from a country that does not allow me to receive the 2024-2025 Covid vaccine, what can I do?
You should follow the guidelines under “What if I am allergic to the vaccine/medical conditions prevent me from getting vaxed?”. You will need a doctor’s note stating that you are not able to get a vaccination because of the country’s policy etc. We are not International Health experts, and you may have to kindly educate us about your country’s policies surrounding vaccinations and or healthcare. Due this prior to February 1, 2024 by emailing [email protected].
What if I do not believe in the vaccine or do not want to be vaccinated for some reason?
Attending Tethered Together is not a right or entitlement. If you are unwilling to follow our policies you should not purchase a ticket.