Is the end of the COVID-19 pandemic finally in sight? According to Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University, “this summer is going to seem so much closer to normal than we've had in a very long time.” Parents are beginning to reap the rewards of vaccination, and with children ages 12-15 now eligible, we are inching ever-closer to a post-pandemic world. As our children return to summer camps and activities, let’s look at how we can move forward with a fun and safe season. 

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CDC GUIDELINES FOR SUMMER CAMPS

Youth and summer camps can play an important role for children. Camps help children build their social, emotional, and physical skills, and provides a structured, safe environment for kids to learn, grow, and develop their capabilities. This CDC guidance is meant to supplement - not replace - any state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations with which camps must comply. 

Guidelines include mask-wearing for all campers, staff, and visitors with the exceptions of certain activities, such as while eating, drinking, or swimming. Social distancing guidelines are as follows:

• At least 3 feet between all campers within a cohort.
• At least 6 feet between all campers outside their cohort.
• At least 6 feet while eating and drinking, including among people within the same cohort.
• At least 6 feet between campers and staff.

Of course, continue to cover coughs and sneezes and handwashing practices.

CDC GUIDELINES FOR MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING
The CDC recently announced that fully vaccinated people do not need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors except under certain circumstances. Everyone can go without a mask when walking, running, hiking, or biking outdoors and also when attending a small outdoor gathering with fully vaccinated family and friends. Those who are not fully vaccinated should still wear a mask while doing anything indoors that involves contact with people who are not members of your household and also when attending a crowded outdoor event such as a parade or sporting event.