Assessment

Exhaustive contact tracing of known cases indicates that off-duty conduct is a primary contributor to the spread of COVID -19 aboard MCB Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River. In many cases, Marines and their families “take their pack off” while at home and away from work or school environments. In-home social gatherings, recreational activities and general fatigue with personal protective measures all combine to lower our guard off-duty and promote the spread of the virus. We must all be diligent to ensure we follow safe practices at all times.

Daily

Personnel who have symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion/runny nose or shortness of breath) should notify their chain of command and/or supervisor and SHOULD NOT report to their work center. Individual commands should reinforce procedures to codify this process in order to meet their accountability requirements.

Best Practices for Off-Duty Activities

1. Personnel should continually apply the three Ws while in an off-duty status: wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance (6-feet social distancing).

2. Facemasks should be worn in all public off-duty indoor areas regardless of distancing (e.g., shopping centers, groceries, service centers/office spaces and indoor gatherings).

3. Personnel should avoid gatherings of any type that are external to their personal bubble or family bubble. When you cannot guarantee the health of all participants, avoid the venue. This includes football parties, birthday parties and external gathering events.

4. Maximize outdoor dining and take-out options for restaurants and other services where curbside pick-up is available.

5. Personnel in the barracks should not congregate in common areas or rooms. Continue to apply social distancing and do not share food, drinks, vaping devices or any other item that would facilitate the transfer of the virus. Maintain social distance in smoke pits/areas. Supervision at all levels is the key to our success.

6. Outdoor activities for exercise and recreation are highly encouraged.

Additional References

The CDC has additional suggestions: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/deciding-to-go-out.html

The CDC also offers excellent examples regarding minimizing risk for personal and social activities:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/personal-social-activities.html

FIGHT THE COVID FATIGUE.
Continued vigilance will prevent loss of ground previously gained.