CDC Finds Coronavirus Outbreak Linked To Arkansas Church Amid Ongoing Concerns Over Religious Gatherings

TOPLINE

A Centers for Disease Control study released Tuesday found that 38% of 92 attendees at events held at an Arkansas church in early March tested positive for Covid-19, underscoring the risks of public gatherings as states reopen.

KEY FACTS

Crucial quote

“Faith-based organizations should work with local health officials to determine how to implement the U.S. Government guidelines for modifying activities during the Covid-19 pandemic to prevent transmission of the virus to their members and their communities,” recommended the CDC study.

Key background 

The Arkansas church held multiple events between March 6 and March 8 before nationwide social distancing guidelines were implemented, including Bible study and a buffet-style meal, and children were present. The majority of the cases linked to the church were among people 19 years of age or older. Internationally, Covid-19 outbreaks have been traced to a secretive church in South Korea, ultra-Orthodox gatherings in Israel and pilgrims visiting Iran’s holy city of Qom, among other gatherings.

Further reading

High COVID-19 Attack Rate Among Attendees at Events at a Church — Arkansas, March 2020 (Centers For Disease Control and Prevention)

California churchgoer tests positive day after service violating coronavirus order; 180 exposed (NBC News)

Court halts ban on mass gatherings at Kentucky churches (Associated Press)

Federal Judge Says Kansas Limit On Church Gatherings ‘Arbitrary’ (Forbes)

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