A firm in Cumnock is today at the centre of a COVID-19 outbreak.
The Post has learned that the NHS Ayrshire and Arran Test and Protect team is carrying out contact tracing at Emergency One.
Emrgency One is involved in the manufacture, service and support of specialist Fire and Rescue Service appliances.
They are based in Caponacre Industrial Estate.
In a statement from Joy Tomlinson, Joint Director of Public Health, she confirmed that a “small number of cases” have been connected to the business.
She said: “NHS Ayrshire & Arran Test and Protect team is carrying out COVID-19 contact tracing related to the Emergency One factory in Cumnock, East Ayrshire, following a small number of cases connected to the business.
“Those who have been identified as close contacts through this process have already been contacted directly by the Test and Protect Team and advised to self-isolate for 14 days.
“Emergency One management have been working closely with us to ensure they have all the support necessary to protect their workforce.
“While Emergency One has physical distancing and hygiene processes in place, the business is voluntarily closing the main building where they operate for a 14-day period.
“This is in order to minimise the risk of further cases in the staff group and wider local community and to support Test and Protect.”
The statement goes on to say: “Staff members and their families are being advised to be extra vigilant and, if they develop any of the symptoms of a fever, new persistent cough or loss of taste or smell, they should self-isolate immediately and arrange a test. Information on how to book a test is available on the NHS Inform website: https://www.nhsinform.scot/.
“All relevant Public Health measures are in place and our Public Health Team is working with East Ayrshire Environmental Health Officers to manage and monitor the situation.”
The statement ends: “To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time.”
Everyone in Ayrshire and Arran is reminded to remember the FACTS guidance:
F – Face coverings. These should be used in shops and on public transport (buses, trains and taxis)
A – Avoid crowded places.
C – Clean your hands frequently, using water & soap whenever possible.
T – Two metres – observe physical distancing.
S – Self-isolate and book a test if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms
