A branch of Big Lukes Buffet Restaurant has closed after an employee caught coronavirus.
Staff at the Metrocentre restaurant were reportedly sent home on Saturday and told to self-isolate after the case came to light.
The popular restaurant, in the Lower Yellow Mall, took the decision to close temporarily after a "number of staff" were identified as close contacts.
"We wish the affected staff member and contacts well," said Alice Wiseman, Gateshead Council’s Director of Public Health.
“This incident shows that coronavirus is still circulating in Gateshead and as restrictions are eased we must all remain vigilant.
“It is important that we all do our best to contain the virus and prevent ongoing spread to others; especially those in our communities who are vulnerable. That’s why if you have symptoms of coronavirus, you must self-isolate immediately and get tested.
“To further reduce the spread of the virus, we are urging residents to maintain a 2m distance from people not in their household; wash their hands regularly for 20 seconds and if they have symptoms to isolate immediately and call 119 and arrange for a test.”
Her warning comes amid rising rates of infection across the North East.
On Monday, the council's deputy leader Councillor Catherine Donovan urged residents the keep up social distancing, adding: " We don't want to see a local lockdown."
Covid-19 cases increased by 40% in Gateshead last week, with many of those in younger people.
Officials fear that could be down to some people not sticking to social distancing rules.
ChronicleLive has attempted to contact the venue, which when it originally opened in the 90s was one of the region's first all-you-can-eat restaurants.
It is the latest North East venue to close following a confirmed case. Several County Durham pubs and bars closed for a deep-clean following an outbreak in Stanley.
Symptoms of coronavirus include a high temperature, new continuous cough and a loss or change in your sense of taste and smell.
If you develop symptoms your household contacts will also be required to self-isolate.
