CDC issues new guidance for summer camps

The Centers for Disease Control for Prevention (CDC) on Saturday issued new guidance for summer camps to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

The CDC recommended children must be at least 3 feet apart from each other most of the time, which lines up with the agency’s recommendation for schools. Six feet of social distancing is still recommended for children while eating and drinking.

Camp counselors and adults present should stay at least 6 feet away from each other and children, according to the CDC. 

The CDC also says summer camps should have most of their activities outdoors. If they do activities indoors, they should leave windows and doors open.

“Bringing fresh, outdoor air into your facility helps keep virus particles from concentrating inside,” the CDC said.

Masks are recommended for anyone who can wear one except when doing activities that preclude mask-wearing, such as eating and drinking or swimming.

The CDC encourages camp employees over the age of 16 to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

While most adults nationwide are eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine, the vaccines currently in use have not been approved for those under the age of 16. While children are less likely to become severely ill or spread the virus, both are possible at any age.