More than 125 people who attended a church camp in Texas has tested positive for COVID-19.
Bruce Wesley, the lead pastor of Clear Creek Community Church, said the outbreak stemmed from a late June Student Ministry Camp for students from sixth through 12th grade, which more than 400 people attended, according to CNN.
“Unfortunately, upon return from camp, 125+ campers and adults reported to us that they tested positive for COVID-19. Additionally, hundreds more were exposed to COVID-19 at camp,” Wesley said. “And hundreds of others were likely exposed when infected people returned home from camp.”
At least three samples from the outbreak were confirmed to be the Delta coronavirus variant, which is the most transmissible.
The Galveston County Health District was notified of the first positive case tied to the church camp on June 27.
“The health district is working closely with church leadership to investigate the outbreak, trace potential contacts and offer guidance and resources,” health district officials said. “The youth group did not leave the campground during their stay. They did have contact with counselors from their church. No other campers were on site.”
Clear Creek Community Church is an interdenominational church based in League City, with five campuses south of Houston. CNN reports. Services at all five of the church’s campuses have been canceled through Wednesday.
“From the beginning of the pandemic, we have sought to love our neighbors by practicing strict safety protocols. We are surprised and saddened by this turn of events. Our hearts break for those infected with the virus,” Wesley said in his letter to the church community.
Philip Keiser, a county health official, said in a statement that the incident “is a reminder that COVID-19 is still here, and we have to take precautions.”
