As you are likely aware, the tri-state area, and largely the
entire country, is preparing for an outbreak of the Coronavirus COVID-19. The
Greater New York Councils staff are monitoring the situation closely. We are
operating as usual but are also working on contingency plans for programming
and other events to be prepared for changing circumstances. We are actively
following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), New York Department of Health,
New Jersey Department of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), and local
health departments where our camps and office are based, so we can respond
quickly to any shifts in their recommendations.
Public health authorities’ current guidance does not include
closures or cancellations of functions such as the program events that are
scheduled across our council and camps. As always, participation in Scout
activities is up to the discretion of parents and guardians and of unit
leaders. While our facilities are operating as usual, we are also working on
contingency plans for program and camp events to be prepared for changing
circumstances.
For the protection of the community, please follow the CDC
guidance and ensure that Scouts and adults stay home when sick and do not
attend Scouting activities. Sick is defined by the CDC as having a temperature
above 100.0º F (38.7º C), not feeling well, or appearing weak or ill.
Please follow all of the steps recommended by the CDC
·
Wash your hands often
with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand
sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
·
Cough into a tissue or
your elbow (not your hand). Then throw the tissue away and wash your
hands.
·
Avoid touching your eyes,
nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
·
Avoid contact with
people who are sick. Do not attend Scouting activities when you are sick.
·
Stay home when you are
sick, with temperature above 100.0º F (38.7º C) or do not feel well, appear
weak or ill
·
Consult your health care
provider if you have special health conditions that put you at increased risk.