The Windsor Essex County Health Unit is reporting 13 cases of COVID-19 at Lakeside Produce in Leamington.
The first case was confirmed on April 1. Since then, another 12 workers have tested positive. Health officials say all of them were close contacts of each other.
Through working with the health unit, officials at Lakeside Produce said it was determined the first case was acquired through community contact and was not linked to any travel.
“We are doing well and continue to strive for excellence with the guiding assistance and support from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, Produce Marketing Association, Canadian Produce Marketing Association and Joe Sbrocchi and his team from Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers," said Lakeside Produce Chief Operating Officer Sudeshna Nambiar. "Last year we created a Bio-security team to combat potential virus, whether they be plant or human-related. Safety and protection of our employees continues to remain our top priority with an extension to our community. In order to feed the world, we are fiercely determined to take care of our people – because they are our world.”
Ten of the 13 infected workers have recovered.
“As the province moves towards re-opening businesses, we are reminded that everyone in the workplace has roles and responsibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is critical that if you are not feeling well, you do not go to work to prevent the spread of infection in the workplace, ” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.
Earlier on Tuesday, the health unit reported up to 25 cases at local greenhouse facilities.
