The Foundation took this step based on increasing medical evidence of a greater risk that people with CF could spread destructive germs to others with CF, which may lead to severe or worsening lung disease. The new policy reflects the advice of leading CF medical experts and published medical research.
The key elements of the Foundation's policy are:
- Indoor events: At any Foundation-sponsored indoor event or meeting, including gatherings such as chapter committee meetings, only one person with CF may be present and he or she will be designated in close consultation with event chairs and key event volunteers.
- Outdoor events: At Foundation-sponsored outdoor events or gatherings, people with CF need to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from each other.
B. cepacia : Under no circumstances shall individuals who have ever had a confirmed positivesputum culture for Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia) complex attend any Foundation events, meetings or offices.
“We understand that these changes may be difficult for many in our community,” said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Foundation. “However, we want to be sure that we are doing all we can to reduce the risk of cross-infection among people with the disease. The health and well-being of people with CF is our top concern - it is at the heart of all we do.”
The Foundation is expanding its use of teleconferencing and live videocasts to help make it possible for people with CF to participate in indoor Foundation events and meetings and is exploring other new technologies to engage people with CF in all of its activities.
Additional resources:
- Learn more about the Foundation's Infection Prevention and Control Policy.
- For answers to your medical questions, talk with your CF Foundation-accredited care center.