Catholic officials in Las Vegas say they have temporarily closed a church where a priest conducted Mass this week before learning he had tested positive for COVID-19.
The Diocese for Las Vegas said in a news release Thursday that Holy Family Catholic Church would be cleaned and sanitized and that it would be closed until further notice.
Church officials said the priest wore a mask and used a hand sanitizer, but they recommended that anyone who attend the Mass conducted 8:30 a.m. Wednesday be tested.
Officials also said those working at the parish who came in contact with the priest have been told to self-quarantine and be tested.
Diocese officials said all of its buildings require a temperature check prior to entry, face coverings and are regularly cleaned and sanitized, officials said in the release
The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick
For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But for some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.
