(March 3, 2020)

To address concerns regarding Coronavirus COVID-19 and to help safeguard the health and well-being of our members and the greater secured finance community participating in events over the coming months, the Secured Finance Network (SFNet) is instituting the following policies:

• SFNet will work closely with all venues to put into place precautions in line with the guidance provided by the CDC, WHO, and other relevant authorities, including:

- Increasing cleaning throughout our events
- Making hand sanitizer available to promote good hygiene
- Adopting no handshake rules
- Displaying the latest recommendations from the CDC and WHO regarding prevention

• SFNet encourages people who are not feeling well to stay home and will support the recommendations of the CDC’s Traveler’s Health Notices for the latest guidance and recommendations
• SFNet will offer a full refund up to one week in advance of an event start date for anyone who registers for one of SFNet’s* upcoming conferences and later feels the need to cancel for health-related concerns *Please see specific terms and conditions published by SFNet Chapters for their individual initiatives
• SFNet will monitor developments to determine whether further measures are warranted

The well-being of our members, conference attendees, volunteers, and SFNet staff is of the utmost importance. SFNet will continue to follow this situation and to provide updates and resources through direct outreach, social media, and www.SFNet.com.

We appreciate that this is a tumultuous time and hope this gives you peace of mind while dealing with changing circumstances.

WHO video on travelling during the coronavirus outbreak 

Other Tools and Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: CDC’s resource page includes what you should know about the virus, situation updates, and information for travelers, businesses, and others.

U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs: This COVID-19 emergency notification includes information on travel advisories, safe travel tips, and emergency contact information for citizens in China.

World Health Organization: Key Planning Recommendations for Mass Gatherings in the Context of the Current COVID-19 Outbreak. This guide provides recommendations for risk assessment, connecting with local authorities in the event location, and specific action plans for COVID-19 disease, among other topics.

Meetings Mean Business Coalition: MMB's toolkit of coronavirus preparedness and response resources is tailored specifically for meeting and event professionals. It includes talking points, templates, and "fast facts" graphics that can be shared in social media.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber’s “Understanding the Coronavirus” webinar, recorded on January 27 in partnership with CDC, discusses the impact of the virus on the private sector and what businesses should consider as they respond. 

U.S. Travel Association: Emergency Preparedness and Response: Coronavirus (COVID-19). This toolkit includes guidance for travelers, a guide for communicating healthy travel practices, and other resources.