Seven workers at a Fife fresh food supplier have tested positive for Covid-19.
Kettle Produce’s facility in Balmalcolm is to be partially closed for the next two weeks following the outbreak.
All confirmed cases are understood to have mild symptoms and are currently self isolating at home.
A number of workers who have been identified as close contacts of the confirmed cases are also currently in isolation.
Management at the facility, which has produced vegetables and fresh food for outlets across Scotland since 1985, decided to undertake a voluntary partial closure of its Balmalcolm operation from Saturday morning onwards for a fortnight.
Following additional risk assessment, staff who have been identified as working within specific areas of the site have been asked not to attend work and to self isolate.
Workers have been provided with further advice, including how to arrange testing if they develop symptoms.
Dr Esther Curnock, NHS Fife deputy director of public health, said: “Following detailed discussion and risk assessment with Kettle Produce, it has been agreed that it is prudent to undertake a voluntary partial closure of the site for 14 days, with identified staff asked to self isolate.
“We recognise this may cause some concern, however, it is important action is taken at an early stage to prevent further spread.
“Workers are asked to be extra vigilant and if they develop any symptoms to arrange to be tested. It is important that anyone experiencing the well-established symptoms of Covid-19, such as a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, arranges to be tested using the UK Government Citizens’ Portal or by calling 0800 028 2816.
“The Incident Management Team are continuing to monitor the situation closely.”
Kettle Produce is one of Fife’s largest employers and produces 100,000 tonnes of fresh vegetables and salad each year from sites at Freuchie and Balmalcolm near Cupar.
The company also operates several strategic supply partnerships across Europe.
