The coronavirus disease outbreak has made its way to several packing plants.
As of April 1, three plants had reported outbreaks: JBS in Greeley, CO; Perdue Farms in Milford, DE; and Foster Farms in Farmerville, LA.
Six confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported at JBS, and the company said more than 800 workers called in sick on March 27.
While JBS won’t confirm the cases, the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 union said the plant notified them of the cases.
JBS said they have boosted disinfection efforts, are now screening workers for symptoms, and have put tents for employees to take breaks.
Perdue Farms’ plant closed temporarily after two employees had tested positive, and the company said employees will be quarantined for 14 days.
Foster Farms also shut down briefly for disinfection after several employees tested positive for the virus.
USDA has reassured stakeholders that the relevant agencies will be sure to handle the challenges associated with COVID-19 in the agriculture sector.
