Update March 4, 2020:
The FAM 2020 LOC and IOC is paying close attention to the global outbreak of Corona Virus (COVID-19). After careful deliberation and with input from Public Health experts and South Africa’s Tourism Authority (SATSA), we are planning to proceed with FAM 2020. Our meeting is, in the context of international conferences, a small-size event with capacity for 200 participants. At the same time, we consider it to be of enormous importance to infertility-related reproductive health in Africa.
There has been one confirmed case of COVID-19 in South Africa and only eight confirmed cases in Africa (Algeria [3], Egypt [1], Morocco [1], Nigeria [1], Senegal [1], Tunisia [1]) (http://www.health.gov.za; http://africacdc.org). Although globally the number of affected people is still increasing, morbidity and mortality rates are declining. The vast majority of patients experience mild to moderate flu-like symptoms. Population groups at increased risk are the very elderly, people suffering from immune-compromise, and people with certain chronic diseases. The South African Department of Health (SADOH) is receiving daily situational updates from the World Health Organization.
Screening is in place at all major entry points involving assessment of skin temperatures and questions regarding travel to affected areas (http://www.health.gov.za)
The situation remains uncertain and we may need to change, so we ask you to please check this webpage regularly. With your help and input, we are planning to continue putting together the best and most memorable conference. We understand that some potential attendees may not wish to travel for personal reasons or be restricted from travelling, should government-based restrictions be imposed in selected countries.
We will put additional precautions into place during the conference, including:
– extra hand sanitizers and tissues throughout the venue
– disposable face masks for people who might develop symptoms on site or need to be isolated
– a designated space to isolate attendees who might develop symptoms during the conference with rapid access to emergency care
– guidance to participants who may need medical attention during their conference stay
– more intensive cleaning and disinfection of public spaces and surfaces in the convention centre
– extra attention to seating to avoid crowding
– additional precautions in the preparation and presentation of food items during meals and breaks
We will continue to update this dedicated webpage regularly.
