GUELPH – A portion of the Cargill meat processing plant on Dunlop Drive in Guelph is shutting down after 82 workers tested positive for COVID-19.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) earlier declared an outbreak at the facility, which now as 129 workers in isolation –both cases and close contacts.
As a result, Cargill has voluntarily agreed to “idle” the affected part of the plant, effective Dec. 17.
A press release from WDGPH on Dec. 17 states some 200 individuals have now been tested.
Two weeks ago, 21 positive cases were reported and the number has been steadily rising.
“All outbreaks are serious,” said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, Associate Medical Officer of Health.
“However, when we see an outbreak of this size, we must use all of the tools available to us to contain the outbreak and ensure the community at large is protected.”
Tenenbaum thanked Cargill for its “complete participation in containing this outbreak.
“As cases rise in our region, we will be at more risk for outbreaks. That’s why we must do all we can to keep cases low and respond quickly to any outbreaks.”
Officials say the health unit has completed a full infection prevention and control review of the plant.
“Because of the scope of the outbreak, there is a small but serious risk of transmission to the general community,” the release states.
“(WDGPH) continues to follow up with cases and trace their contacts,” the release states.
On Dec. 11, Tim Deelstra, spokesperson for the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 175 and 633, told the Advertiser the union has been working with management to help contain the spread.
He said staff are screened when they enter the facility, they wear personal protective equipment during their shifts, and barriers have been placed between workstations.
There has also been enhanced cleaning and employees have been spread out in the facility, which had caused a reduction in production.
Residents who have questions or concerns can contact the WDGPH call centre at 519-822-2715 ext. 7006.
