Major COVID Outbreak at Texas Church Camp Now Linked to 160 Infections

The number of COVID-19 cases stemming from a church camp in Galveston, Texas is growing, with the outbreak now linked to 160 infections.

More than 400 youth and adults participated in Camp Creek in late June, a student ministry camp for sixth through 12th grade kids at Clear Creek Community Church, according to a statement from the church shared last week.

"Unfortunately, upon return from camp, 125+ campers and adults reported to us that they tested positive for COVID-19," Lead Pastor Bruce Wesley wrote in the statement.

"Additionally, hundreds more were exposed to COVID-19 at camp," he added. "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."

On July 7, Wesley said in an update that more cases have come out of the camp.

"The COVID outbreak at Student Ministry Camp came in two waves. The first wave happened at camp, the second wave happened when people brought the virus home to their families on June 27," he said.

In cooperation with Galveston County Health District (GCHD), Clear Creek has cancelled church services for the last two weeks.

According to GCHD, 57 Galveston County youth and adults have tested positive for COVID-19, with 10 of the cases being in those aged 12 and younger. Of those reported, the Delta variant was identified in three test samples, and six were breakthrough cases, meaning they became infected more than 14 days after being fully vaccinated.

"The Delta variant is highly contagious, more so than other strains. And people who are unvaccinated are at most risk," says Dr. Philip Keiser, Galveston County local health authority, in a statement.

"I cannot stress enough – there is no reason to not get vaccinated if you're old enough. There are plenty of vaccines available," Keiser continues. "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."

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The GCHD also noted that more than 90 positive COVID tests were reported in non-Galveston County residents who attended the church camp.

Clear Creek began a five-phase reopening plan after the COVID-19 pandemic began last March, transitioning from online services to small group gatherings (10 people or less) in May 2020. They've since started allowing slightly larger gatherings, lifting their mandatory social distancing seating this April, before making face masks optional in May.

"From the beginning of the pandemic, we have sought to love our neighbors by practicing strict safety protocols," Wesley wrote. "We are surprised and saddened by this turn of events. Our hearts break for those infected with the virus. Please pray for a speedy and complete recovery for all of those affected."

The church did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment about whether proof of vaccination was required for campers or if COVID tests or temperature checks were implemented.

As of July 5, the GCHD reported 425 active COVID-19 cases. The county's number of positive COVID tests has increased by 11.7% over the past month.

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