Summer Camp Revamped

By Michael Petrosky, MD – AHN Pediatrics Arcadia

Temperatures are climbing and

the school year is ending. This means it is time for summer camp season. With the pandemic consuming almost all of 2020 and the skyrocketing numbers of mental health, social, behavioral, and developmental issues, summer camp can be a much needed respite. Even with COVID cases declining and vaccine administering climbing, going to camp does have additional risks.

To go or not to go is a personal decision and everyone in the family should have some comfort with the choice. Is the experience and socialization worth the possibility of being exposed or contracting COVID? Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal answer to this question. It should be decided on a case by case basis with decision being centered on both the camper and the camp itself. Hopefully some of the information you find below will help guide you to the decision that is best.

Camp this summer should look different than before the pandemic. If it doesn’t, that should be a red flag signifying that it may not be the best option at this time. I encourage parents/guardians to ask the camp questions or get information on a number of topics.

Are vaccines required for campers/ staff? This depends a lot on the age of the campers as right now children under the age of 12 are not eligible for the vaccine. If not required, what percentage of the staff is vaccinated? We know the higher this number is, the safer camp should be.

What is the camp’s masking policy? Science has showed that masking is effective in preventing the spread and contraction of COVID-19. It still remains one of the best tools we have for those that who have not received a vaccine. See if there is any difference in masking for those vaccinated vs. unvaccinated. I also recommend knowing what happens if a camper doesn’t follow the rule. Safer camps have strict guidelines in this regard.

Despite all the safeguards and restrictions that camps may put in to place, no one can guarantee that an individual won’t get sick or acquire COVID. For this reason, the camp must have a policy in place to handle the situation if/when it arises. Where will the camper get tested to see if it is COVID or not? Will the camper be sent home right away or be isolated first? How will the camp staff determine exposure, and what happens to exposed campers? There should be a difference in individuals who have received the vaccine as those with immunity don’t need to isolate/quarantine while asymptomatic.

Camp can be a great time to learn, grow, develop friendships, and have fun. These are all vital things in a child’s life. However, safety is also paramount. I encourage you all to consider and really think about summer camp this year. Once you understand how camp will run this year, make the best decision for you and your family.