MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- COVID-19 cases continue to increase across the country. Local communities, the surrounding counties and MCIEAST installations are experiencing high community transmission and positive case rates due to the surging Delta variant of COVID. Current data indicates that those infected with the Delta variant experience higher viral loads and are more contagious than those infected with other strains.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local health officials continue to stress that the current surge impacts the unvaccinated portion of the population most significantly. Evidence continues to support the safety and effectiveness of Emergency Use Authorization vaccines as they provide protection against the variants circulating in the United States. The overwhelming majority of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths occur in those who remain unvaccinated. The Pfizer vaccine remains available at the Wallace Creek Fitness Center, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Per updated DoD guidance in areas of substantial or high community transmission, ALL PERSONNEL– vaccinated and unvaccinated – are required to wear a mask in indoor settings on installations. This applies to all service members, dependents/beneficiaries (retirees), federal employees, onsite contractor employees, and visitors entering installation facilities.
No later than 8 a.m. Monday, August 2, new signage will be in place at installation facilities with the following protocols in effect:
Face coverings are MANDATORY when entering any facility including, but not limited to:
- Medical/Dental Facilities
- Commissary
- Mess Halls
- All MCCS Facilities (MCX, CDC, food venues, golf course clubhouse)
- All Fitness Centers
- Operational Spaces
Face coverings are NOT required for people who:
- Have health issues preventing the wearing of a face covering
- Are under the age of 2 (per CDC guidelines)
- Are actively eating or drinking
NO changes to current outdoor activities: Training, Conditioning Hikes, and PT. *Tenant Commanders have the authority to enact stricter protocols to meet mission requirements.
We continue to recommend adherence to the 3W’s – wash your hands, wait 6 feet apart / social distance, and wear your mask. Any personnel with COVID-like/flu-like symptoms should stay home from work and seek additional information from their healthcare providers. Personnel awaiting COVID test results should stay home and isolate themselves from others.