COVID-19 Information
The City of Liverpool has been at the forefront of developing and implementing a number of national policies for the mitigation of Covid-19 risks. Delegates can be assured that the Symposium will be held in a responsible and secure environment.
At the time of writing, the number of recorded new Covid-19 infections in the UK is falling, and the number of people requiring ventilatory support for Covid-19 is far below the numbers seen earlier in the pandemic. The UK government has removed all legal restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of Covid-19 (including requirements to self-isolate), but provides advice about what you should do if you have Covid-19 symptoms or test positive whilst in the UK. This can be found here: [https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus]. Lateral flow test kits can be purchased at pharmacies. In the unlikely event of catching Covid-19 and becoming seriously ill with it whilst in the UK, the National Health Service provides emergency treatment to international visitors, and the University of Liverpool Hospitals have extensive experience of treating Covid-19 related illness. Although it is no longer a legal requirement to self-isolate, we hope and expect that ISCEV delegates will act in a way which protects the health of fellow delegates and conference staff (for instance by self-isolating voluntarily in the event of testing positive). Although the wearing of face coverings in public places is now voluntary, and is becoming less common, you may still wish to consider wearing face coverings in crowded places such as public transport.
For international delegates, we advise that you consult the most up to date advice regarding international travel issued by your own government. Some countries may still expect travellers who test positive to delay their return home until testing negative, or a specified number of days from the first positive test or onset of symptoms. The UK government has issued advice about visas in the event of needing to stay in the UK longer than expected here: [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-uk-visa-applicants-and-temporary-uk-residents].
We also strongly advise that, before travelling to the UK, you take out insurance which covers the possibility of needing treatment for Covid-19 or needing to extend your stay, as well as the possibility of needing to cancel your visit. Whilst the conference organizers will be happy to answer queries (pls contact Tony Fisher) and, if necessary help you to find accommodation for an extended stay, this is not a substitute for being adequately insured.
Latest update from the University of Liverpool here