More than 125 coronavirus infections have been traced to a church camp in Galveston, Texas.
According to the church’s statement, the camp held late June was intended for sixth through 12th grade kids at Clear Creek Community Church and has gathered more than 400 youth and adults.
“Unfortunately, upon return from camp, 125+ campers and adults reported to us that they tested positive for COVID-19,” said Lead Pastor Bruce Wesley wrote through the statement.
“Additionally, hundreds more were exposed to COVID-19 at camp,” he furthered. “And hundreds of others were likely exposed when infected people returned home from camp. We seek to remain in contact with those impacted. If you, or someone in your family, begins to have symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.”
Clear Creek has already called off its approaching services as it cooperated with Galveston County Health District (GCHD). The church is expected to return on July 11.
GCHD said 57 Galveston county youth and adults have been confirmed to be infected by the virus. Of this number, ten were aged 12 and even younger.
Three sample tests from the church were reported as Delta variants while six were considered breakthrough cases or those who tested positive more than two weeks after receiving the vaccine.
“The Delta variant is highly contagious, more so than other strains. And people who are unvaccinated are at most risk,” Galveston County local health authority Dr. Philip Keiser said.
“I cannot stress enough – there is no reason to not get vaccinated if you’re old enough. There are plenty of vaccines available,” he said in a statement. “In this outbreak, at least as of now, it appears most of the people who have tested positive are old enough to be vaccinated. These vaccines are safe, effective and they offer the best protection against COVID-19 to you, your family and your community.”
More than 90 infections were meanwhile reported among church camp attendees who were not Galveston County residents, GCHD said, as reported by PEOPLE.