Nearly 30 participants of the Middlebury Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference have tested positive for Covid-19, highlighting the ongoing challenges of holding in-person events during the pandemic. Among the infected is Laura Mauldin, a participant from New York City who had taken numerous precautions such as wearing KN95 masks and dining outdoors. However, despite her efforts, she still contracted the virus.
The Middlebury Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, like many organizations, has followed guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to minimize the risk of Covid-19 transmission. These guidelines emphasize the importance of individual responsibility for testing, masking, and isolating. However, despite adhering to these protocols, the highly contagious nature of the Delta variant led to the virus spreading among the 272 participants of the 10-day conference.
In response to the outbreak, some participants were asked to leave the conference campus, while others were given the option to isolate in place. Those who chose to leave were able to continue participating remotely in conference sessions and were offered prorated tuition, room, and board.
Throughout the conference, the number of Covid-19 cases increased, with organizers sending regular updates to participants. Despite the escalating situation, the conference carried on as planned, with organizers making every effort to follow CDC guidelines and ensure the safety of attendees.
The Vermont Department of Health has not received reports of the cases from the conference but has requested that organizers reach out to them for guidance and investigation. This highlights the need for effective communication and collaboration between event organizers and public health officials to control outbreaks and prevent further spread of the virus.
Criticism has been leveled at the Middlebury Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference for its Covid-19 protocols, particularly regarding the lack of prioritization for disabled or chronically ill individuals. Attendees argue that more should have been done to accommodate those who are at higher risk or who require additional support to mitigate the dangers of the virus.
The outbreak at the Middlebury Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference serves as a cautionary tale for event organizers and highlights the ongoing challenges of navigating the pandemic. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants, particularly those who are more vulnerable, while adhering to public health guidelines.
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