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Summer Camps and COVID: How to Keep Kids Safe

June 17, 2021

The first summer youth camps of the COVD-19 era in Connecticut will follow many of the adult-style safety protocols of the past year.

Here are some recommendations from the Pediatric Care Alliance, a collaboration between Connecticut Children’s and Hartford Healthcare:

ALL ELIGIBLE CHILDREN 12 AND UP SHOULD BE VACCINATED

Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized and safe for those ages, and is currently the best way to keep your child safe from COVID.

COVID IS A HEALTH RISK FOR CHILDREN

While most kids do not become seriously ill from COVID, a small number do get very sick and require hospitalization. Also, children with COVID can still transmit the virus and may also suffer long-term health effects still being studied. That’s why it’s so important to get your child vaccinated if they’re eligible.

Get Outdoors!

Being outside in the fresh air is still one of the safest environments for reducing the risk of catching COVID, so summer camps with plenty of outdoor activities are recommended.

Limit Group Size

Campers should be divided into consistent groups, or “cohorts,” of no more than 20 children that stay together each day and do not change.

Scheduling, COVID-Style

Group camp activities, like dining, should be staggered when possible to avoid very large mass gatherings of campers.

Follow Your Camp’s Guidelines

You’ll know when, and where, you’ll have to wear a mask.

For more information on kids and COVID, click here.