To all Wallerstein Mikvah Users,

As we consult with experts about the Covid-19 virus and learn more, we remain fluid and mindful, as we once again update our practices at the Wallerstein Mikvah in Kemp Mill. We want to do the best we can to stay open while preventing any illness from spreading, and to make you comfortable in fulfilling the crucial mitzvah of taharat hamishpacha. Please note that these decisions have been made with guidance from community Rabbis.  (New changes are in bold.)

  • AS OF SUNDAY 3/22, APPOINTMENTS MUST BE MADE TO USE THE MIKVAH. WE WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTING SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS. CALL 301-681-3737 TO LEAVE A MESSAGE AND SOMEONE WILL CALL YOU BACK WITHIN A SHORT TIME.
  • ALL WOMEN MUST PREPARE AT HOME, to minimize the time spent in our building.
  • All women will be asked the following health questions before entering the building.
    • Do you have a fever?
    • Do you have a cough?
    • Do you have a headache?
    • Do you have shortness of breath?
    • Have you been exposed to someone who has tested positive for Coronavirus?
  • No showers will be taken prior to tevilah. We ask that you shower before you arrive. Please wash your hands and face with soap once you enter the changing room and again before you leave the building.
  • Our attendants are taking extra precautions, including wearing gloves, practicing safe, physical distancing and, performing no physical checking.
  • Women will hold a cloth while using the railing when entering and leaving the mikvah.
  • Although not usually done, it is suggested that women should shower again when arriving home.
  • Our cleaning staff is always diligent in cleaning our changing rooms between uses. We are now even more vigilant in wiping down all surfaces.
  • Our two mikvah borot (pools) have filtration systems and we treat the water daily with pool chemicals at levels intended to kill viruses and bacteria. We have increased these chemicals for now and we test the chemical levels twice a day.
  • The borot are also equipped with an ozonator, which helps kill bacteria, contaminants and other waste in the water.
  • Please see the CDC guidelines regarding pools. (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html)
  • It’s important to practice simple everyday precautions. If you are sick or are in quarantine or have been recommended to self-quarantine, please do not come to the mikvah. If you have concerns, please consult with your Rav.

We have and will continue to consult with medical professionals and local Rabbonim, but please know we’re just trying our best to keep everyone safe. Please reach out if you need us.

Lori Tolchin, MES President
Chayie Chinn, Wallerstein Mikvah Manager

Cheryl Stern Community Kelim Mikvah CLOSED

Due to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 and the lack of feasibility in ensuring appropriate cleanliness at this site, the Cheryl Stern Community Kelim Mikvah at YISE will remain closed until further notice. This is out of an abundance of caution — we are not aware of any use at the Kelim Mikvah by anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

To inquire about the best way to tovel new utensils, please contact Rabbi Weinberg.

[March 22]