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Missoula Parks and Rec temporarily suspends youth programming due to COVID-19

Missoula Parks and Recreation volunteer tests positive for COVID-19
Posted at 2:50 PM, Oct 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-13 20:16:49-04

MISSOULA — A pair of COVID-19 cases has prompted Missoula Parks and Recreation to temporarily suspend some youth programs.

Parks and Recreation has suspended some of its youth day camp and afterschool programming for the through Oct. 16 after two staff members tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a news release.

Parks and Rec has notified the 66 campers who may have been in contact with a staff member who tested positive.

The Missoula City-County Health Department is currently investigating the incident and contacting families who are considered close contacts.

The two COVID-positive staff members did not have contact with each other last week.

Campers and staff are managed in distinct groups to prevent community spread within the program, and programming to date has been held outdoors in city parks.

Recreation Manager Meg Whicher says youth programming is taking this brief pause as an extra precaution.

“We will use this week to complete our incident safety review, deep-clean and re-disinfect vehicles and shared equipment, and prepare the former library building at 301 W. Main to house youth programming during inclement weather,” Whicher says.

“We remain committed to meeting or exceeding safety standards in COVID-19 prevention protocols. Our initial assessment indicates department COVID-19 protocols were effective in limiting exposure and facilitating an informed, rapid response.”

About 442 children are currently enrolled in Parks day camp and after-school programming.

Additionally, the Jr. Playmakers Flag Football program for grades K – 5 has also been suspended for the week after a volunteer coach and several parents tested positive for COVID-19.

Parks and Recreation immediately notified families who may have been exposed to the volunteer who tested positive.

Participants in the suspended camp and afterschool programs received a credit or refund for missed days, and the Jr. Playmakers football season has been extended by one week.

For questions about recreation programming, please call at 721-PARK (7275) or email parksrec@ci.missoula.mt.us.