2 Sisters outbreak investigation closes

The investigation into the coronavirus outbreak at the 2 Sisters factory in Coupar Angus has drawn to a close, health chiefs have confirmed.

Staff began returning to work this week after spending the past fortnight in isolation.

NHS Tayside said the total number of cases linked to the cluster stood at 201, a single case up from Tuesday.

This includes 174 factory workers, and 27 of their community contacts.

The Incident Management Team (IMT) in charge of the operation announced yesterday evening that it was “concluding its investigation into, and management of, the outbreak”.

It was agreed there is no need for further IMT meetings.

The situation will continue to be monitored by the Health Protection Team, Environmental Health, Food Standards Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive.

Dr Emma Fletcher, associate director of public health and chair of the IMT, said: “Along with partner agencies from the IMT, we will continue to work with 2 Sisters to closely monitor the situation and to ensure there is support in place for factory workers should they need it.

“It continues to be very important for workers who develop any symptoms to self-isolate and book a test as soon as possible.

“I would like to thank all members of the IMT for their invaluable professional support and advice during this incident.

“This situation has required a response well beyond the usual public health measures which would normally be expected from an IMT.

“The excellent partnership working has allowed decisions to be made and action taken which enabled this outbreak to be contained with no evidence of wider community transmission.”

Dr Fletcher added her thanks to the 2 Sisters workers and their families for complying with selfisolation guidelines.

“This has been so important in preventing further transmission of the virus in the community,” she said.

Staff were given food parcels and extra support while they isolated.