Attention Members

I want to take this opportunity to let you know how the Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh, (BAMP) and the Apartment Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh (AAMP) are addressing the current spread of COVID-19.

First and foremost, our approach is guided by data and recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and US National Institute of Health (NIH). We will also comply with all future, legally-binding mandates of the federal, state and/or local authorities.

In short, as of today, BAMP and AAMP are "open for business" as it relates to normal office functions and all scheduled meetings. Given the fluidity of regulatory actions to control the spread of the virus, and decisions of our host facilities, this can change and our members will be advised, accordingly.

OUR RATIONALE
Our reasons for this are made based in large part on the following:
  • According to the WHO, "…Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARSCoV)…Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties…"
  • According to the WHO, the recently identified COVID-19 as "…A novel coronavirus (nCoV) [which] is [simply] a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans…"
  • Regardless of the variant, the WHO, CDC and NIH all are in agreement: "Standard recommendations to prevent [coronavirus] infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing…"
  • For perspective, according to CDC data, in the US so far for the 2019-2020 Influenza Season, a total of 245,502 influenza cases [predominantly from Type A (H1N1pdm09) and Type B (Victoria)] have been confirmed.
  • While there are still no presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in our region, and there has yet to be community spread identified in Pennsylvania, there is increasing evidence in the U.S., the state and surrounding states indicating that local presumptive positive cases are likely to be detected in the near future.
  • Additional perspective, according to CDC data, in Pennsylvania so far for the 2019- 2020 Influenza Season a total of 4,393 influenza cases [predominantly from Type A (H1N1pdm09) and Type B (Victoria)] have been confirmed.

WHAT WE ARE ASKING FROM YOU
  • Do what you feel is the best course of action for you regarding participation in association events and activities.
  • If you have any active flu symptoms – particularly fever or severe cough – we ask that you not attend an association event or meeting to avoid inadvertently spreading the illness. Please seek appropriate medical attention if warranted. Any registration fees you may have paid for future events that you are unable to attend will be refunded.
  • If you have high risk conditions that may be adversely impacted by COVID-19 – defined by CDC as "…Older adults [and] People who have serious chronic medical conditions like: Heart disease, Diabetes, Lung disease…" – we advise that you consider not attending our events or meetings per CDC's recommendation. Again, any registration fees you may have paid for future events that you are unable to attend due to this risk will be refunded upon your notification and request.
  • While attending an event or meeting, please consider refraining from handshaking, hugging or other close contact.
  • Remember that, by the numbers, you have a much higher probability of contracting and/or being affected by the common cold or Influenza Type A or B during the "cold and flu season" here in Pennsylvania.
  • Follow common sense practices that you were taught from a young age: Cover your mouth when coughing, wash your hands frequently and avoid being around others if you (or they) are clearly not feeling well.

SOURCES