Potential Coronavirus Outbreak Reported At Nashua Church

Tony Schinella
·2 min read

NASHUA, NH — State health officials are investigating a potential COVID-19 outbreak at a Nashua church.

Seven people who attend services at the Gate City Church on Main Street in Nashua in September have contracted the virus, according to officials. Those people who became infected attended multi-day prayer sessions held between Sept. 19 and Sept. 28.

"DHHS and the Nashua Division of Public Health and Community Services are investigating these illnesses further and the church has moved to hosting virtual services only," the State Joint Information Center said. "Any individuals who attended events associated with Gate City Church since Sept. 19 may have been exposed to COVID-19 and should observe for illness and seek testing."

Testing is available for anyone without health insurance or a primary care provider. Tests can be scheduled by calling 603-271-5980 or through completing the online form at the state's testing website.

Potential symptoms parishioners should be looking for include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of taste or smell.

Any person who develops new symptoms should stay home, limit their contact with others, immediately contact their healthcare provider, and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for self-observation is available here.

COVID-19 continues to circulate in New Hampshire communities, according to health officials, but Granite Staters can protect themselves and help prevent further infections in our communities by:

  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.

  • Avoiding close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.

  • Wearing a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.

  • Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.

  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Staying home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.

  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For more information on COVID-19 in NH, visit https://www.nh.gov/covid19/.

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This article originally appeared on the Nashua Patch