Boy Scouts of America

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COVID-19 FAQ

UPDATED 02/23/22 - The most recent updates are indicated by a diamond in front of the question.

In-Person Unit Activities

♦ Q: Should we hold in-person Scouting meetings, outings, or activities?

We expect everyone in Scouting to follow the measures listed below, based on CDC guidance. Members, staff, and volunteers must also follow all federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial rules and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. In addition, we have instructed local councils to consult with their local and state health departments, and local chartered partners, to implement appropriate protocols to help keep members, volunteers, and employees safe.

  • Be Responsible for your health and that of others:
    • Isolate if you are sick, and do not attend any activity/meeting/event if you, anyone you live with, or anyone you have recently been around feel unwell.
    • Do not attend any activity/meeting/event if you or anyone you live with has been tested for COVID-19 or another illness and has not received the results.
    • Practice good hand washing. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
    • Be aware of who you are in close contact with and let them know promptly should you become sick within 48 hours of the contact. 

♦ Q: What is BSA’s policy on social distancing in a tenting environment when camping?

Camping should only take place in accordance with guidelines outlined by your state and local health department and other local officials, as well as under the direction of your local BSA council and chartered organization. There is no formal national policy on social distancing in tents, just as there is no prohibition on tenting alone if logistics can accommodate that request. As always, all BSA youth protection policies must be followed as indicated in the Guide to Safe Scouting.

♦ Q.  Will the National Council require a COVID-19 vaccine for participants at in-person activities or at camp in 2022?

No.  We recommend that all eligible individuals receive and stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine in consultation with their health care provider.

We are aware of states, local councils and camps that will require all participants to be up to date with the COVID vaccine and /or test prior to attendance.