A mobile coronavirus testing station has been set up at a South Wales pastry factory.
Nineteen workers at the Caerphilly-based factory of Peter's Pies are now confirmed as having the virus and have been excluded from the Bedwas site.
This figure was up from a total of four earlier this month, while management say a further 15 are currently off sick with undiagnosed cold-like symptoms.
A unit was set up at the factory yesterday morning and it aims to test the 600-strong workforce over the course of the next 48 hours.
Colleagues who have been in direct contact with these cases have been removed from the site, with bosses admitting to taking "extensive measures" to stop the spread of infection.
"Our understanding is that the rationale for conducting a 100% testing of colleagues is the increased number of Covid-19 test results reported in recent days," said a spokesperson for Peter's Pies.
"The local authority would like to understand if there is the potential for onward transmission within the factory environment and determine if Peter’s are likely to see a greater number of cases within the coming week.
"We've been told that the decision is not a reflection on the controls in place in the factory as these have been reviewed and are very good and there has been minimal positive Covid-19 or asymptomatic cases.
"At this stage the authority still believes the transmission is through the community, however, they need to understand the bigger picture to identify if this is the start of onward transmission within the factory environment."
Since the coronavirus outbreak took hold back in March Peter's Pies has implemented social distancing amongst its staff, installed perspex screens and ensured PPE is in place for those working in the factory's packing areas, while common areas are cleaned and sanitised throughout the day.
Canteen seating has also been limited and "screened off", and shift patterns have been staggered.
Weekly Covid reviews also take place with workers and Trade Union representatives and all staff are required to confirm they are symptom free at the start of work.
