PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The nation's top infectious disease expert says it's "conceivable" that parents will be able to send their kids to camps and playgrounds this summer, even without a COVID-19 vaccine.
In an interview on CBS's "Face The Nation," Dr. Anthony Fauci said at the current pace of vaccinations, the rate of COVID-19 infections per day will likely reach a "much lower level."
Fauci has previously said elementary-aged children will likely not get vaccinated until early 2022.
Here in Central Pennsylvania, summer camps are enrolling despite the fact that campers and staff likely will not have the COVID-19 vaccine.
Karen Ruppert of the YMCA of York & York County said that the experience in 2020 helped preparations for this year.
"Some of the things are still going to be in play, obviously, depending on what restrictions are still in place via the state of Pennsylvania," Ruppert explained.
"The children wore masks last year at summer camp. They were given mask breaks during the day where they social distanced from each other. If they couldn't socially distance, they would have to wear masks all the time."
The American Academy of Pediatrics says there is "little evidence" that shows transmission of the virus among children and staff when safety protocols are followed.
Ruppert said that the biggest challenge they are facing is transportation and the issue of socially distancing campers.
"Obviously siblings can sit together," Ruppert said. "We will probably raise the limit because the children are sitting together when traveling to and from school."
For more information on summer camp through the YMCA of York & York County, you can visit their website here.