Health & Safety

Know Before You Go: Health & Safety

Avoid Traveling When Not Feeling Well

· It is recommended and expected that you will avoid or postpone travel if you are feeling unwell. While we will miss seeing you at the event, your well-being and the overall, well-being of participants is what matters most.

· Self-evaluate before leaving home. Traveling while ill increases your chances of potential interaction with an unfamiliar healthcare system and you could transmit your illness to travel partners, other passengers and/or colleagues.

Preparing for Travel – Medical Checklist

· Create a simple travel card that lists all active medical problems, current medications, and allergies. If possible, download a travel health mobile application to input medical records, medications, and other health information (e.g., x-rays, lab results, EKG) so these are accessible if needed. · Pack a travel health kit with your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines (enough to last your whole trip, plus extra), first aid supplies, and your health insurance card. Be sure to review your health insurance for any coverage limitations related to medical care outside of your home country.

· Ensure you/your travel companion’s vaccinations are up to date (e.g., influenza, tetanus, Covid) as well as any country-specific requirements that may be needed.

During Travel

· In the event of an emergency, please call 911 for immediate assistance. · If you require assistance with a non-emergency illness or injury, please contact IEEE’s Event Emergency Response Team (EERT) via email at EERT@ieee.org.

· Request documentation of any medical care received, including medications, and share with your health care providers once you return home.

COVID-19 Testing 
Should you need to be tested while in San Francisco, the following testing locations are within 2 miles (or less) of the Hilton Union Square:

  • Carbon Health - located at 1998 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

  • CVS Pharmacy - located at 1285 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94109

  • Kaiser Permanente (only for those with Kaiser Permanente insurance) - located at 2425 Geary Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94115

General Safety Tips During the Conference

· Remove conference badges outside of the meeting site.

· Close the door securely once you enter your room and use all of the locking devices provided.

· When walking, stick to well-lit, busy areas; walk with a purpose. Don’t be distracted by the use of your headphones or cell phone.

· Place all valuables in the hotel safe deposit box.