Mid-Missouri summer camps try to head off coronavirus infections as numbers rise
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Some summer camps in Mid-Missouri say they are taking steps to avoid the spread of coronavirus to avoid the outbreaks seen in some parts of the state.
A camp director for the Presser Performing Arts summer camp said the camp has been keeping track of the case numbers in Mexico, Missouri, and all personnel and staff were vaccinated before the start of camp.
Campers are not required to wear a mask but are strongly encouraged to do so and to keep a 3-feet distance from others if they are not vaccinated. The camp offers sanitation stations and masks are available at the front desk.
Presser Performing Arts camp usually hosts about 50 children, but this year that number has been cut in half. The director said the camp will continue to monitor the case numbers in the county and react accordingly.
All campers and staff are required to wear masks at Access Arts in Columbia, said director Shawna Johnson. Johnson said students are allowed to take their masks off when they are outside only.
Johnson said students do not share supplies and sit at desks socially distanced from other students.
MU Healthcare Pediatrician Chris Wilhelm said it is important to have COVID-19 precautions in summer camp.
"With the summer camps, things kids should do is wear masks and socially distance, everything we've been preaching for the past year or so. I think, it is my opinion, that these kids do get back to summer camps because they need to get out and play, and they will be going back to school soon," Wilhelm said.
Wilhelm said because the amount of people kids and staff come in contact with in and out of camp, vaccination is important in summer camps.
"Yes it does help because remember that one staff members comes in contact with 40 people then goes home to their family and their parents, if they are vaccinated thats one way we can stop the spread," Wilhelm said.
The U.S. has seen a string of COVID-19 outbreaks in summer camps in recent weeks, according to a U.S. News article. In the article a camp in La Monte Missouri, the West Central Christian Service Camp had an outbreak a few weeks ago among the camp nurse and several other members and volunteers.
Staff members did not respond for comment.
The camps are happening amid a surge in coronavirus cases in Missouri and a series of outbreaks at camps in several states. The daily average of new cases in Boone County has reached levels not seen since February. Cases statewide are up almost 20% in the past week and hospitalizations are increasing quickly.
Schools are also being hit as the virus infects more of the population. Columbia Public Schools reported 22 students out with coronavirus Tuesday and another 159 in quarantine because of exposure.
