PORTLAND, Maine (AP) The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say in a report that a deadly wave of coronavirus cases that hit Maine after a wedding is a case study in why it’s important to avoid gathering amid the pandemic.

The outbreak, based around an August wedding and reception in the Millinocket area, killed at least seven people and sickened at least 177.

The CDC’s report, issued Friday, states that an investigation into the wedding showed noncompliance with standard procedures to slow the spread of the virus.

Also Friday, state health authorities say the number of new cases of the virus in Maine continues to climb.