Preventing, mitigating COVID-19 transmission at four camps in Maine

Editor's Note

In this study of four Maine overnight camps with 1,022 attendees from 41 states and international locations, a multilayered prevention and mitigation strategy was successful in identifying and isolating three asymptomatic COVID-19 cases, quarantining their contacts, and preventing secondary transmission.

The camps implemented several nonpharmaceutical interventions, including:

• pre- and postarrival testing and symptom screening
• cohorting
• use of face coverings
• physical distancing
• enhanced hygiene measures
• cleaning and disinfecting
• maximal outdoor programming.

Camp sessions ranged from 44 to 62 days, and the number of campers in cabins ranged from 5 to 44 campers.

Understanding successful interventions to prevent and mitigate COVID-19 transmission in summer overnight camps has important implications for similar settings like day camps and schools with the same age range, the authors say.