Dozens Of Virus Cases Traced To Church’s Christmas Services

Dozens of positive coronavirus cases have been traced back to Christmas services at a Massachusetts church, authorities said.

The Woburn Board of Health has been working with the state to notify people who attended one of four services Dec. 23 and 24 at Genesis Community Church in Woburn, Mayor Scott Galvin told The Boston Globe.

The church is cooperating with authorities, the mayor said.

At least 44 cases have been traced to the church, authorities said.

Genesis in a statement said it is encouraging anyone who attended the services to get tested, whether symptomatic or not, and helping those who need to quarantine to prevent further transmission. Services are now being held online.

“We are deeply saddened to learn that people within Genesis tested positive for COVID-19 and we are doing all we can to make sure this does not spread any further,” the statement said.

Under state guidelines, houses of worship are limited to 25% of capacity. The church said it took proper precautions, including preregistration to attend and requring masks and social distancing.