Q: What is the guidance regarding masks when speaking to large groups of people? Can they be removed?
A: A person speaking to an audience of 30 or more can remove their mask, as long as they maintain appropriate physical distancing from the audience. Organizations can implement stricter guidance to meet organizational needs. However, they cannot make the guidance less strict than what has been published by the JBSA commander. For more information on current guidance, check out
https://www.jbsa.mil/coronavirus/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=RQpYh_IEyIw%3d&portalid=102.
Q: What phase of the vaccination distribution plan are we currently in?
A: As of 14 Jan 21, we have begun vaccinating phase 1B with focus on critical national capabilities, personnel preparing to deploy outside of the United States and frontline essential workers. For the 37th Training Wing, this means our Military Training Instructors. When phase 1c begins, those identified as mission essential personnel (military, civilian and contractors), will be notified as to when they will be able to get the vaccine. As you can imagine, the COVID-19 vaccine information landscape is continually changing. We will continually update you as new information becomes available.
Q: What do the AFIs say about me (or others) going to work with someone who ELECTS to forgo a vaccination or to not wear a mask? Who will be the responsible party?
A: There is no AFI on the vaccine and the COVID-19 pandemic. Because the FDA approved distribution of the vaccine under an Emergency Authorization Use, getting the vaccination is a voluntary matter. However, there is an Executive Order, to protect the Federal Workforce, stating masks should be worn in the workplace in Federal buildings and on Federal land, in addition to maintaining physical distance, and adhering to other public health measures, as provided in the CDC guidelines. If there is a situation where you are ever uncomfortable in the workplace, be sure to bring the situation up to your supervisor so it can be addressed.
Q: Will Admin and co-workers understand if another colleague decides not to take the COVID 19 vaccine due to personal and religious purposes?
A: As of right now the COVID-19 vaccine is completely voluntary. Whether you do/do not elect to get the vaccine is a personal decision. We do recommend that you research and read up on the vaccine in order to make an informed decision that is best for you and your family.
Q: Are Military Training Instructors required to take the vaccine? I understand they are currently being vaccinated?
A: No, receiving the vaccine is completely voluntary at this time. MTI who have volunteered began receiving the vaccine on 5 Jan.
Q: How many Military Training Instructors have received the vaccine?
A: To protect operational security, we are unable to release the number of MTIs who have volunteered to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Q: If I turn down receiving the vaccine when offered, or am not available at the time, will I be able to get it later?
A: Yes, if you originally turned down OR were not available to receive the vaccine, you are still eligible to receive it. Please work with your chain of command to get scheduled at your earliest convenience.
Q: Will DLIELC foreign military partners be required to be vaccinated?
A: Members of allied, coalition or partner nations stationed on DoD installations will be able to receive the vaccine on a reimbursable basis. In any case where the vaccination is provided on a reimbursable basis, the charge for the health care provided will not include the cost of the vaccine itself. Any offer of the vaccine will be done so in a manner that shows respect for applicable host-nation law and be done pursuant to the terms of applicable agreements and arrangements with the host nation.
Q: How long will masks be required after the vaccine becomes available?
A: The intent of the vaccine is to prevent the spread of COVID 19. We will still need to wear cloth face covings and practice physical distancing to limit the spread of the virus. Additionally, we will not have enough vaccine initially to vaccinate everyone who wants the vaccine and COVID-19 pandemic risks will continue. We will continue to recommend wearing masks and practicing physical distancing, for everyone, until pandemic risk of COVID-19 is substantially reduced.
Q: Will families of DLI employees be prioritized for vaccine due to DLI employees being in close contact with so many foreign military.
A: While there is limited vaccine availability, vaccination distribution prioritization is currently focused on those providing direct medical care, maintaining essential national security and installation functions, deploying forces, and those beneficiaries at the highest risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19. As the vaccine quantity increases and we move through the prioritization list, TRICARE beneficiaries will be able to receive the vaccine as well.