COVID-Masking Policy

EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 2023:

With declining COVID numbers in our region, the Hosen Committee has decided to modify our masking policy to have masking be optional, but recommended. We will be tracking the CDC spread rate for Hunterdon County (NJ) and Bucks County (PA) on this website

If the spread rate in both counties remains at Medium or Low, masking will continue to be optional, but recommended. However if the spread rate increases to High in either county, masks will again become mandatory until it drops to Medium. The CDC updates the county status weekly, late in the day on Thursday.

An important Jewish value is that we keep each other safe, and the policy outlined below enables us to safely come together as a community. We are grateful for your continued understanding and cooperation.

EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2023:

An important Jewish value is that we keep each other safe, and the policy outlined below enables us to safely come together as a community. We are grateful for your continued understanding and cooperation.

The Hosen Committee, after much deliberation, has decided that the following guidelines will be in effect at least through this winter season. The policy is based on:

• rising COVID, flu, and RSV infection rates in our area
• the results of the recently administered survey to assess members’ opinions about masking practices
• the fact that our KHN community comprises many older and immune-compromised members.

Masks (KN95 or N95) are required for services and other in-person indoor gatherings unless the program or service leader and those attending agree beforehand that masks will be optional.  In that case, social distancing will be maintained.

Mirroring the local school systems, the Shul School became mask-optional Sunday, January 22.  Students should bring masks with them in case they are needed for special circumstances.
 
Masks are not required for outdoor activities. 

If you have COVID-like symptoms, are within ten days of a new infection and/or have had a positive COVID test, please DO NOT enter the building. Similarly, if you have been exposed and are asymptomatic, wear a mask until 10 days after the exposure. A test five to seven days after diagnosis or exposure is recommended.

During Oneg, Kiddush, holidays like Tu B’Shevat and Pesach and agreed upon other times like a special Oneg Shabbat where food is consumed, anyone attending without a mask must test negative before the event and have no symptoms of COVID, flu, RSV, or other similar illnesses. 

In-person, indoor gatherings will also be on Zoom so that everyone, regardless of health status or comfort level, will be able to participate.