Respiratory Illness Policy Including COVID-19 Risk Management and Safety for Our Guests

The CDC has recently issued new guidelines for respiratory illness, such as COVID-19, flu, and RSV. In light of these new guidelines, we are updating our policy for this program in particular to reflect this recent advice. While it remains impossible to eliminate all risks of transmission of illness at Drala Mountain Center, we are dedicated to keeping everyone healthy and able to enjoy their program.  Thank you for doing your part.

Antigen Testing Requirement

  • All registered guests, regardless of age, will be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 24 hours before their arrival.
  • Self-administered at-home antigen tests, as well as those administered by a third party, are permissible.
  • On arrival, registered guests will be required to (1) attest that they took an antigen test within 24 hours of their arrival, with negative results; and (2) show a photo of their negative test result. A guest’s photo ID must also be visible in the photo.
  • A photo of negative test results that includes visible photo ID is the only acceptable proof of a negative test result. Please do not bring your actual antigen test as verification.
  • If you did not test or take a photo, we can provide a test for you for the cost of $15.00 dollars plus a processing fee of 2.75%
  • Failure to provide a negative antigen test result may result in a guest not being permitted to attend their program/retreat or remain on DMC property.
  • We also require that guests bring at least one rapid antigen test with them to DMC in the event that during their stay they experience COVID-19 symptoms or are in close contact with someone who experiences symptoms or tests positive.

COVID-19 Symptoms Before Arrival

  • Out of respect for everyone’s health, we ask that Registered Guests not visit DMC if they have recently experienced symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19, flu, or RSV, if they have not yet been symptom-free AND without a fever for at least 24 hours.

Program Attendees Who Become Ill With a Respiratory Virus During a Program

  • Registered Guests are required to inform DMC if they experience COVID-19 or other respiratory symptoms at any time during their stay.
  • Please note that DMC cannot provide medical care for participants who become ill.
  • Any Guest who tests positive for COVID-19 or another respiratory illness during their stay will be required to isolate. Isolation is necessary until they no longer have symptoms AND have been without a fever for 24 hours.
  • A Guest who has been ill, but recovered, will also be asked to wear a mask for 5 days and keep adequate distance when they rejoin their program.
  • DMC will try to give program attendees a place to isolate, should they become ill. However, with a full program, there are a limited number of places for participants to isolate on the land. While those in single rooms may remain in their lodgings, those staying in double rooms or dorms or tents may be moved to a shared infirmary or other lodging. 
  • In the event that DMC cannot provide a space to isolate at the retreat center, a participant will need to make other arrangements locally to isolate until they are symptom-free and without fever for 24 hours. 
  • DMC cannot provide transportation or refunds for participants who leave the program due to a respiratory virus

Masks

  • Masks are optional at DMC. We continue to support anyone who prefers to wear a mask and recommend that anyone who is immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness wear a high-quality, well-fitting N-95 or KN-95 mask.