pandemic waning but we need to be vigilant

Although the pandemic is transitioning to endemic via evermore less virulent but more infectious variants we all need to keep our guard up and practice sensible Covid hygiene. Case numbers are spiking in Las Vegas now (4x increase over a month ago) so we need to tread cautiously. Most of us do not need to be fearful due to prior infection and/or vaccination, but the potential for reinfection and thus spreading it to others is real. I would ask that our club members and new visitors exercise good judgement and restraint when deciding on whether or not to visit the club after or while experiencing symptoms. The simplest measure if feeling unwell is to simply skip a meeting or two. If you suspect Covid then please get tested. The Abbott at-home testing kits are covered by health insurance and provide an answer within 15 minutes of testing. Those who call ahead can get a kit via the drive up window at any of the major pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS, etc). There is specific guidance on how to best use these kits to lessen the chance of false negatives – please consult Abbott or your pharmacy’s web page on this subject. Stay safe so you can enjoy more chess!