O’Brien Fine Foods has confirmed that testing of 177 employees who previously tested negative for Covid-19 has been completed, with eight further cases of Covid-19 discovered.
The company noted that, as with previous cases, the level of asymptomatic infectivity “appears to be very high”.
The statement said: “In line with public health guidance and as signalled last Tuesday [August 11], we have undertaken testing among employees on day seven of the Covid-19 incubation period.
This testing was undertaken by the Health Service Executive [HSE]. Of 177 tests conducted on day seven, we can confirm that eight employees have received a positive result. 169 employees have tested negative.
“Since the first cases of Covid-19 were identified in Ireland last February, we have operated with an abundance of caution and safety.
“In consultation with the HSE, we have taken what we believe are the most responsible actions at all times.
“Those who have tested positive have been advised to isolate as per the official guidance and full risk assessment and contract tracing procedures are underway,” the statement added.
All close contacts of those affected are being notified, advised to self-isolate and to contact their GP.
“We are in daily contact with the HSE and are in consultation with them in planning the roll-out of a regular and comprehensive surveillance testing programme.
“We firmly believe that to reduce risk and to best manage and control the spread of this virus, rigorous and regular testing procedures are required.
“We will be testing all employees routinely and continue to work with and be guided by the HSE in this regard,” the statement concluded.