The health department hosted a virtual seminar for camp operators to help them gear up for a safe and successful summer season. The session featured a variety of informative presentations, including children’s mental health today, immunizations and communicable diseases, sexual health services, and rabies prevention—all key topics to support camps in keeping their campers and counselors healthy and protected.

Christina McGuigan, LMHC, Children’s Mental Health Coordinator, shared valuable insight on the social and emotional signs to watch for in campers. While many behaviors may be part of normal development, she encouraged staff to stay attentive and recognize when something may be out of the ordinary. If camps need outside support, they can reach out to CoveCare Center, Putnam County Mental Health Department, and even the 988 Crisis lifeline.

Jean Ralston RN, MSN, WHNP, Public Health Supervising Nurse, and Alexa Contreras, Public Health Educator, followed with an engaging presentation on immunizations and communicable diseases and sexual health services. Jean highlighted the strong connection between vaccination and communicable disease and stressed the importance of prevention, especially as measles cases continue to rise. Camp operators were informed about how measles spread and the key signs and symptoms to watch for. Alexa provided an overview of the sexual health services offered by the health department, reminding attendees that condoms can be made available to camps for counselors if needed.

Last but not least, was a discussion on rabies prevention. Andrea DeMarchi, Public Health Sanitarian, demonstrated how to safely capture a bat. She reminded attendees that rabies is a fatal virus transmitted through bites from infected mammals or by saliva and nervous tissue entering open wounds. Camp operators were encouraged to contact the health department right away if campers or staff get bit by any animals (including pets) or encounter any wildlife such as foxes, skunks, racoons or bats. Health department staff are available after hours, if needed. Please call 845-808-1390 and dial extension 3.

The seminar wrapped up with reminders to camps to send in their permit application paperwork as soon as possible. Also, they should contact their designated inspector in case they need support or have questions. Here’s to a happy and safe summer for camps and campers alike!

Camps who missed the event are encouraged to view the seminar, available at