Covid-19 cases in Grantown increase to 31, with 29 linked to abattoir
The total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases within the Grantown community has risen to 31, of which 29 are linked with an abattoir.
The Millers of Speyside plant has closed for two weeks. This is described as a voluntary closure and NHS Highland says the company has been co-operating fully with the investigation into the outbreak.
In accordance with national guidance, NHS Highland’s health protection team has instigated case follow-up. Contact tracing is being carried out, with all those identified as close contacts being advised to self-isolate.
The health board says there is no evidence that food is a source of Covid-19, and "it is very unlikely it can be transmitted through the consumption of food".
Food Standards Scotland staff working at the plant are aware of the positive cases and are following the necessary health protection advice, including following Scotland’s Test and Protect system and self-isolating.
A spokesperson for NHS Highland said: "We are also aware of links with the care sector and are taking appropriate measures. We have also, given the increase in numbers in the local area, advised local care homes to suspend visiting with immediate effect."
Dr Tim Allison, director of public health for NHS Highland, said: “NHS Highland and partners are working together to manage this community outbreak. Our health protection team is following up with contacts and the appropriate advice is being given to those identified.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the virus can recur even in rural communities and so everyone should continue to adhere to physical distancing guidelines, wear a face covering when in enclosed spaces, clean your hands and surfaces regularly and immediately self-isolate if you develop symptoms.”