Post #54 Summer Camp Guidance During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2021)

With the widespread deployment of COVID-19 immunizations and the knowledge that children are at far lower risk for serious COVID-19 disease and complications, it may be tempting to sign your children up for summer camp. However, please bear in mind that because the COVID-19 vaccine will likely not be available for children (under 16yo) until late 2021/early 2022 and with the spread of new COVID-19 variants, there is still real risk to children from the pandemic. Some questions to ask yourself in choosing whether or not to send your child to summer camp this year: 1.    How healthy is your child? Do they have any chronic health conditions that would put them at an increased risk for significant illness from COVID-19, such as (but not limited to) diabetes, asthma, or an immune deficiency?2.    How important is this camp to your child? If they are ambivalent about going, it may not be worth the increased exposure. If they have been looking forward to it for a long time, a serious family discussion may be warranted.3.    Can you defer this camp until next year and substitute a safer alternative this year?4.    An overnight camp would post the highest risk due to indoor close quarters. Is there a day camp alternative as a safer alternative this year?5.    What safety measures is the camp taking against COVID-19? Is there a screening process? What happens if someone ge...
Source: A Pediatrician's Blog - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: blogs