Sunscreen Use at Children's Camps and Schools

Consultation between the State Education Department (SED) and Health Department regarding the importance of protecting children from potential overexposure to the sun has resulted in revisions to guidance pertaining to the application of sunscreen by children while at school or summer camp. 
The SED guidance was changed to reflect that a medical provider order is no longer required to allow a child to carry and use sunscreen when it is used to protect against overexposure to the sun, the sunscreen is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter use, and the child's parent or guardian provides written permission for the child to carry and use sunscreen.  Children's camp operators should review the their policies regarding the use of sunscreen and consider revising the health history or other forms to get the necessary parental or guardian authorization to implement this guidance.