Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

November 12, 2020

Multiple COVID-19 Outbreaks Linked to a Wedding Reception in Rural Maine — August 7–September 14, 2020

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  • An outbreak investigation of a wedding reception in rural Maine attended by 55 people in August 2020 initially identified 30 primary COVID-19 cases, but infected wedding guests were later identified as the likely source of outbreaks in the local community, a long-term care facility 100 miles away, and a correctional facility 200 miles away. Overall, 177 COVID-19 cases were linked to the reception, including 7 hospitalizations and 7 deaths (6 in the long-term care facility).
  • The investigation also revealed that the wedding reception exceeded attendee capacity limits and had relaxed enforcement of mask use and physical distancing.

Mahale et al. (Nov 13, 2020). Multiple COVID-19 Outbreaks Linked to a Wedding Reception in Rural Maine — August 7–September 14, 2020. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6945a5