This spring, health department staff gathered with camp operators at a virtual seminar to kick off preparations for a successful summer camp season. Held annually, this important event keeps camp operators up to date with the latest information and emerging issues. On the agenda was introducing inspectors for the year, information from health department staff about trauma, adversity, and resilience; and information about communicable diseases, which include vaccine preventable diseases, avian influenza, and sexual health services.  

Supervising Public Health Educator Shanna Siegel, RN, BSN, started the event with a presentation on trauma, adversity, and resilience. She reminded the camp operators of their important role in supporting children’s mental health. An overview of trauma and adverse childhood experiences, and their impact on health was provided. Suggestions to help children build resilience during their time at camp were reviewed as well. 

Communicable diseases were up next, starting with Public Health Nurse Jeanette Baldanza, RN. She covered vaccine preventable diseases and how to respond to potential illness. She stressed the important of being aware because although most campers are vaccinated, there has been a resurgence in vaccine preventable diseases like measles, mumps, and pertussis. Rounding out the session on communicable diseases was Public Health Nurse Jean Ralston, RN, MSN, WHNP. She shared information about what to do after a rabies exposure or for a suspected tuberculosis case. Avian influenza was also discussed, including what to do if a dead animal is found on camp. The sexual health services available to counselors were also reviewed, including the availability of free condoms and free testing services for a range of STIs.  

Public Health Sanitarian Andrea DeMarchi finished up the presentations by providing resources explaining how to follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) while still staying in compliance with NYS sanitary code. The seminar ended with application deadlines and staff contact information0.  

Camp operators who missed the event are encouraged to view the seminar, available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xj-Vu031taY.