Dear colleagues,
With this message, we aim to provide an update on the current status of the ESOT Congress 2021 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst we are still fully committed to providing an immersive hybrid congress experience with a full in-person presence, we understand that some of you are bound by travel restrictions and/or do not feel comfortable travelling to Milan from August 29th – September 1st 2021.
After a long absence, ESOT Congress 2021 will be one of the first congress with a face-to-face presence, so we foresee a great degree of enthusiasm from the transplant community who have been waiting for the opportunity to reconvene.
CURRENT STATUS OF COVID IN ITALY
Covid-19: All of Italy expected to be under ‘white zone’ rules by mid-June
From July 1st 2021, congress and events “in person” can be held again in Italy, according to the last Decree of the Italian Prime Minister and, the Green Pass should enter into force throughout Europe, which will mean that European Citizens who have been fully vaccinated will not need to take a swab test.
The ESOT Congress Management Team, together with our agency – AIM Group International – and our Congress Venue – MiCo Milano, have already prepared a safety and security plan to respect the main criteria for in-person events in this new Covid 19 era.
Some of the measures that we are putting in place include: separated entry and exit flows, body temperature measurement at entrances, hand sanitising stations throughout the venue, floor signage to encourage 1m social distancing, automated IT procedures for registration, advanced medical support in case of need, all rooms will be set up to meet social distancing requirements.
Additionally, the cleaning service of all congress centre areas will be upgraded, internal air recirculation will be eliminated, and all catering services will be redesigned in compliance with the hygiene and health safety measures necessary to avoid risks of biological contamination. We are also evaluating the possibility to work with local health organisations to provide COVID tests for those returning to their home country after attending the ESOT Congress 2021.
Of course, the safety and security plan will be updated following the evolution of the pandemic and our team is working constantly to ensure your maximum safety.
To access updated information, please visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.esteri.it/mae/en/ministero/normativaonline/decreto-iorestoacasa-domande-frequenti/focus-cittadini-italiani-in-rientro-dall-estero-e-cittadini-stranieri-in-italia.html
Umberto Cillo
Congress Co-chair & SPC
Luciano Potena
SPC Co-chair & ESOT President-Elect
Devi Mey
Congress Manager
Released on 07|06|2021
