Cleanliness rules emphasized at camp
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Updated: July 22, 2009 3:29 PM
With all the fun and excitement that surrounds summer camp, kids can usually be forgiven if they forget to cover their mouths when they cough or wash their hands before meals.
But across B.C., a renewed emphasis on cleanliness is underway after the provincial government released its H1N1 influenza guidelines for summer camps late last week.
Despite the warning, Ida Chong, B.C.’s minister of healthy living and sport said it is still important for children to participate in summer activities.
“Summer camp is a terrific time for young people and we don’t want to discourage parents from sending their children to camp,” she said in a media release. “We want to encourage everyone to get involved in showing due diligence in the basics. Wash your hands, cover your mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough, and stay home if you are sick.”
The province outlines six precautions people should take to protect their health:
• Stay home if you are feeling sick or showing signs of influenza.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue away immediately.
• Wash your hands often.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Practise other good health habits, including being physically active and getting plenty of sleep.
For more information, go to www.gov.bc.ca/swineflu.
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