Coronavirus outbreak at South Norfolk chicken factory

Workers at an Attleborough chicken factory have gone into isolation following an outbreak of coronavirus.

Seven workers at Banham Poultry in Station Road, Attleborough, have undergone a 14 day isolation, whilst a further five are awaiting test results.

Louise Smith, Director of Public Health for Norfolk, said health officials were monitoring the situation closely.

She said: “We are working with colleagues at Public Health England, the NHS and Breckland Council following an outbreak of coronavirus at Banham Poultry in Attleborough.

“Seven workers have tested positive for the virus, all are isolating for 14 days. A further five individuals are isolating awaiting test results.

“The management team at Banham Poultry has acted quickly to help prevent the spread of the virus and is working closely with us to trace the contacts of those who have tested positive.

“We are monitoring the situation and taking action to prevent further transmission both at the site and in the community.”

Testing of a further number of staff is being arranged at the Banham Poultry site today and tomorrow as a precautionary measure.

Blaine van Rensburg, Managing Director of Banham Poultry added: “The safety of our staff, customers, and the wider public is really important to us and we are working with public health authorities to make sure we are doing absolutely everything we can and following all of the correct procedures. We have already invested in a range of procedures and protective equipment to keep our staff as safe as possible.

“The business remains open and operating and we are doing everything we can to prevent the further spread of the virus.”

The current incidence of coronavirus in Breckland is 5.02 cases per 100,000 people, whilst the average for England is 10.68.

Norfolk County Council has advised anyone who has symptoms to help prevent the spread and protect others by isolating and booking a test by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk.