DMC Virus & Flu Safety Protocols
(Effective March 1, 2025 for DMC Land Retreats) 

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.

COVID Vaccination(s) are not required, but strongly encouraged. 

Masking is optional. We encourage anyone who exhibits mild cold or flu symptoms (such as coughing, sneezing or fever) to mask in public areas. Masking is welcome in all spaces. While we will have masks available, please bring your own supply.  

Proof of Negative COVID Test Result is No longer required, but self-testing is strongly encouraged. While we no longer require proof of a negative test result for retreat entry and no longer test mid-retreat (for 7-night or longer retreats), self-testing is strongly encouraged prior to arrival, especially if symptomatic. 

Our decision to let go of COVID testing is in alignment with other retreat centers and in consideration of CDC guidance which states that testing is appropriate when individuals show symptoms of COVID. Our symptoms-based approach aligns care and protection strategies for COVID with those of the flu, RSV and other illnesses. We will continue to track conditions as they change and will adapt our policies as necessary.  

The intention is to move towards a culture of self-monitoring and personal responsibility. Please help us to provide a kind, healthy environment for our staff and participants that includes children and seniors by following our safety protocols.  

Virus and Flu Policy 

If a participant or faculty member exhibits contagious symptoms, they will be asked to leave the retreat or isolate. We will also ask them to take a COVID antigen self-test onsite.  

If there is a positive test for COVID-19, they must depart DMC or move into isolation at a designated location if there is room capacity to safely do so. Anyone who exhibits strong cold or flu symptoms will be required to be isolated and not permitted to enter public spaces, even with a negative COVID test.

Prior to Arrival 

  • Prior to arriving at DMC, be mindful of attending large public gatherings and know that the risk of exposure may be increased. 
  • Use thorough hand hygiene: wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds as often as practical. 
  • If you are experiencing respiratory or flu symptoms, please wear a mask or stay at home  and away from others. Do not arrive at DMC with any contagious symptoms. 
  • If you are taking public transportation or flying to DMC, please consider wearing a mask while en route, including on the plane and in the air terminal. 
  • If you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, please test 5-7 days after exposure, even if you do not have symptoms. 
  • If you test positive for COVID-19 or another cold or flu, isolate yourself at home and be symptom free for at least 5 days before arriving for your retreat. Please notify us as soon as possible, take a COVID test, and reconsider coming to your scheduled retreat. 

Additional Protocols 

Ventilation/Air Filtration: We have air filtration in our shrine rooms.

Dining: We ask that participants practice mindfulness while eating and not linger in the dining room. Hand sanitizer will be provided and we ask that you use it before serving yourself at the buffet. During the summer, we have additional outdoor seating options for dining.