The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is urging the public to remain cautious at residential camps following recent reports of two COVID-19 outbreaks in the Miami Valley.
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ODH released an updated residential camp guidance to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
“If not everyone at a residential camp is fully vaccinated, the layering of strategies is critical to protecting campers, staff, and volunteers,” said Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, chief medical officer at ODH. “This is especially important as a new, more contagious strain of COVID-19 settles in our state. Taking these precautions can help reduce the likelihood of spread and allow everyone to safely participate in camp activities.”
The guidance recommends implementing layered prevention tactics at camps attended by any campers who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This includes masking, social distancing, hand washing, and frequent cleaning and sanitations.
Vanderhoff continues to encourage all eligible Ohioans to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
“Vaccination is our most effective tool for preventing COVID-19 and putting the pandemic behind us,” Dr. Vanderhoff said. “These vaccines save lives and will help ensure Ohioans are able to enjoy many more summers to come.”