A COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Illinois is a reminder that young people are taking a risk by not getting vaccinated, health officials say. Eighty-five teens and adult staff at a youth summer camp in central Illinois tested positive for the virus and one young adult was hospitalized, according to the Illinois Department of Health. The camp did not check the vaccination status of those who attended and did not require masks indoors. Although everyone there was eligible for vaccination, only a handful of the people at the camp had been vaccinated. More than one individual at the camp attended a nearby conference, which led to 11 additional cases, according to the health department.

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Will everyone be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before camp starts?
CNN More than 80 teens and adult staffers from a Central Illinois summer camp tested positive for Covid in an outbreak that has impacted people across three states, officials said. Here's what you need to know. More Videos Wondering about summer camp safety? Miracle Covid survivor: Woman wakes up after weeks on ventilator. Volunteers step in to help man battling Covid keep Christmas tradition alive. Education is key issue in elections as parents grow frustrated with Covid restrictions. One mom's message to other parents after her 8-year-old got Covid vaccine. Surgeon General to Sanjay Gupta: I know the pain of having a child hospitalized. Pfizer CEO on new pill data: I think it's a great day for humanity.
The Available Camps
You may be looking for a camp where your child can relax and reconnect this summer, but worried since COVID continues to spread. More than a year into the pandemic, studies show that camps with proper safety steps in place can greatly limit the spread of COVID infections. If you're considering camp for your child this summer, whether it's a just during the day or an overnight or residential setting, here are some questions to ask:. All campers over age 2 and all camp staff should wear face masks indoors, unless advised against it medical or developmental reasons--especially if not everyone is vaccinated. In general, masks do not need to be worn for outdoor activities except in crowded settings where there is a lot of close contact. All camp staff who are eligible should be fully vaccinated prior to the start of camp. All eligible campers ages 12 years and above should also be encouraged to be fully vaccinated. If a camp operates with all staff and campers that are fully vaccinated, then additional COVID safety measures, such as physical distancing are not needed while at camp.
Our week-long day camps help girls increase their self-efficacy , the belief in their ability to succeed. Our dedicated team of girl-experts make the CAMP experience magical for every girl - valuable friendships, fun activities, crafts and games which cultivate the Six Cs Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, Coping Skills, Collaboration, and Confidence , and our flagship curriculum to help girls feel powerful this summer and beyond! This year, we celebrate our 25th anniversary with a renewed commitment to advocacy and activism and have two CAMP themes designed to inspire girls to ignite their power and use it to advocate for themselves and their communities. This camp focuses on igniting the belief in your own abilities and discovering the leader in you! Celebrate your unique power as you explore your values and identity.