Assessing Outdoor Activities for Children During Ongoing Pandemic Restrictions

Epidemic prevention issues

Hello Doctor, I am a social worker at a children's home with about 30 residents.
Due to the pandemic, classes have been extended until June 14, and we have been hesitant to let the children go outside before May 28 due to concerns about the spread of the virus.
However, we have learned that the Level 3 alert will continue.
While we are concerned about the pandemic and recognize the importance of preventive measures, we are also worried that the children are feeling cooped up since they haven't been able to go outside.
Therefore, we discussed allowing the children to go out in small groups, no more than 5 at a time, for 20-30 minutes.
They will wear masks throughout the activity, and the location will be at the riverside (an open area).
After exercising, they will return to the home to take a quick shower.
Do you think this is advisable? Is the risk high?

Dora, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/25

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the current recommendation regarding the pandemic is still to prioritize indoor activities.
The risk outdoors mainly depends on the likelihood of coming into contact with others throughout the process, especially since children tend to interact with various surfaces and people.
This is an important factor to consider, so the decision may vary based on your specific plans.
There is no definitive answer.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/05/25

More Info

In the context of the ongoing pandemic, assessing outdoor activities for children, especially those in a residential care setting, requires a careful balance between the physical and mental well-being of the children and the need for safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Your plan to allow small groups of children to engage in outdoor activities while adhering to safety protocols is a commendable approach, but it is essential to consider several factors.

First and foremost, the mental health of children is a critical concern during extended periods of confinement. Children thrive on social interaction and physical activity, both of which are vital for their emotional and psychological development. The lack of outdoor activities can lead to increased anxiety, behavioral issues, and a general sense of restlessness. Therefore, providing opportunities for safe outdoor play can be beneficial for their overall well-being.

Your proposal to allow groups of no more than five children to engage in outdoor activities for 20-30 minutes while wearing masks is a reasonable strategy. Outdoor environments, especially open spaces like riverbanks, typically present a lower risk of virus transmission compared to indoor settings. The fresh air and increased ventilation can help mitigate the risk of airborne transmission. However, it is crucial to ensure that the children maintain physical distancing during these activities, as close contact can still pose a risk.

Additionally, it is important to monitor the health of the children closely. Before any outdoor activity, screening for symptoms of COVID-19 should be conducted. If any child exhibits symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, they should remain indoors and be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Furthermore, regular hand hygiene practices should be emphasized, including washing hands before and after activities and using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.

Another consideration is the local and state health guidelines regarding outdoor activities during the pandemic. It is essential to stay informed about the latest recommendations from public health authorities, as these guidelines can change based on the current state of the pandemic. If the area is experiencing a surge in cases, it may be prudent to reassess the plan for outdoor activities.

In summary, your approach to allowing children to engage in outdoor activities in small groups while following safety protocols is a positive step towards addressing their physical and mental health needs during the pandemic. However, it is vital to remain vigilant about health guidelines, monitor the children's health, and ensure that safety measures are strictly followed. By doing so, you can help create a safe and supportive environment for the children while also promoting their well-being during these challenging times.

Similar Q&A

Outdoor Cough Etiquette: Protecting Your Child's Health

Hello Doctor, During lunchtime, I accompanied my younger sister home from school, and on the way, we encountered a man who was coughing without wearing a mask and sprayed towards us. When we got home, I quickly told my sister to wash her hands and rinse her mouth before watchin...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Mei: 1. Covering your mouth and nose while coughing to prevent droplet spread is a basic etiquette and a measure for infectious disease protection. Unfortunately, there are still a very small number of individuals who do not pay attention to this. Currently, we are faci...

Assessing Infection Risks for Children After Exposure to Spit

Hello, Dr. Hong: Today, my husband took a day off, and we went out to eat clay pot chicken with our baby. Although it seems that the pandemic is less talked about domestically now, I still wear a mask as much as possible and ask my husband to do the same to protect our child, sin...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, it seems that you were approximately one meter away from a potential droplet exposure outdoors. Since it is a more open space, the risk of transmission should be very low, especially since you and your family were wearing masks. Therefore, the likelihoo...

Managing COVID-19 Anxiety: Tips for Staying Safe in Crowded Places

Hello doctor, I've been noticing an increasing number of infections from Indonesia appearing in Taiwan. Today, when I went to my aunt's house, I felt there were a lot of people when I transferred from the high-speed rail to the MRT. I encountered a foreign girl wearing ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, according to government regulations, all incoming travelers must complete their quarantine period before being allowed to go out; otherwise, they will face penalties. Foreign migrant workers are also required to undergo testing before the end of their quarantine. With thes...

Understanding Adenovirus Symptoms in Children Before Air Travel

Hello Doctor, my child started having a high fever of 38.8°C on the evening of Sunday, May 21. After visiting the emergency room, it was confirmed that it is neither COVID-19 nor influenza. After returning home, the fever has been intermittent, reaching around 39°C. The fever can...

Dr. He Zongxian reply Pediatrics
Dear Parent of the Little One, Based on the symptoms you described (without mentioning the child's age), your child's symptoms (high fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and red eyes) are indeed consistent with adenovirus infection. However, I would like to remind you th...