We are closely monitoring the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization’s statements regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and following the guidelines from these agencies as well as local health departments and medical professionals. The CDC has not issued a travel health notice for the continental U.S. regarding COVID-19. Yet as an enhanced preventative measure in light of current related events in Florida, we’ve further enhanced our cleaning, communication, and promotion of healthy hygiene practices.
Our housekeeping departments now clean with quick acting hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectants instead of standard alcohol-based disinfectants used previously and clean more frequently on a modified schedule. Items cleaned in public spaces and guestrooms include phones, remotes, and touch points. Hand sanitizer dispensers accessible to guests are located in all of our public spaces and lobbies.
For associates who have direct contact with guests, e.g. front desk agents and cashiers, we provide surface disinfecting products and hand sanitizer bottles and/or dispensers. For guests checking in, associates are asking guests to disinfect their hands upon arrival and sharing hand washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette tips.
Our managers have been provided with details of the CDC guidelines to share with their associates during pre-shift meetings. Managers will ask associates to stay home when they are sick. Additionally, we have communicated directly to all associates regarding the necessity of safe hand washing and hygiene practices.
The CDC’s Prevention & Treatment guidelines provide travelers with the best methods of protecting themselves against possible infection. From the CDC:
“…CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth [with unwashed hands].
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (such as your laptop or cell phone).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.”
Source: https://www.cdc.gov
