Coronavirus: Further cases confirmed at Ebbw Vale food plant

Public Health Wales have confirmed a further three cases of coronavirus at an Ebbw Vale food processing plant.

Dr Rhianwen Stiff, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales and our multi-agency partners have been investigating cases of Coronavirus associated with the Zorba Delicacies Ltd food processing plant in Ebbw Vale following the discovery of five confirmed laboratory cases. 

“As a precaution, tests were arranged for the employees. 476 people have been tested, and among them a total of three additional individuals were found to have a positive test result for COVID-19. Contact tracing of these three individuals has already begun.

“This brings the total number associated with this incident to eight confirmed, with one other probable case.

“This is a very good outcome and we wish to thank Zorba Delicacies Ltd for their full cooperation.

“Investigations are ongoing as to the possible cause of the incident, and no firm conclusions can be reached at this early stage. No outbreak has been declared.

“Close contacts of confirmed cases have been contacted through the Test, Trace, Protect process and provided with additional advice for themselves, household and other contacts.

“As we move into the recovery phase of the Coronavirus pandemic, we expect to see clusters in settings such as workplaces.  We manage any cluster of Coronavirus appropriately, including by providing advice around infection prevention and control, and by supporting contact tracing where required.

“We remind the public that they have a vital role in preventing the spread of Coronavirus. They can do this by always observing social distancing guidelines – that’s staying two metres away from others - washing hands regularly, and working from home if they can.

“When travelling you should also avoid car sharing with people outside your household, and ensure social distancing on entry and exit from your workplace as well as during break times.

“If you or a member of your household is advised to have a test for Coronavirus you should do so promptly to help control the spread of infection.

“If you develop symptoms of cough, fever or change in sense of taste or smell you must book a test for Coronavirus.

“The Food Standards Agency advise that it is very unlikely that you can catch coronavirus from food.  COVID-19 is a respiratory illness.  It is not known to be transmitted by exposure to food or food packaging.”