SPARTA, N.C. — The Appalachian District Health Department is now investigating after a confirmed COVID-19 outbreak at Bottomley Evergreens and Farms in Sparta.
Officials said there are 102 confirmed cases and results are still pending for some individuals.
Health officials said many positive cases are reporting no symptoms.
Officials said the company requested help from AppHealthCare last week, testing the entire workforce of 398 people.
“Due to the nature of this virus, we are concerned with the number of people who are positive and living and working within close proximity to others,” AppHealthCare health director Jennifer Greene said. “We are continuing to work together with Bottomley Evergreens and Farms to implement control measures to limit further spread of the virus.”
A spokesperson for Bottomley Evergreens and Farms said the company is working closely with AppHealth Care to follow safety protocols such as screenings before every shift, education about the spread of COVID-19 and providing protective equipment.
“The health and safety of our employees and community are our priority,” the spokesperson said.
OTHER STORIES
FACTS NOT FEAR
Remember facts, not fear when talking about the coronavirus. You should take the safety measures recommended by health leaders to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Abide by the three W's. That means wearing a mask, washing your hands, and waiting at least six feet from another person. You also want to avoid touching your face and make sure to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw it away.
WHERE YOU GET INFORMATION ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS IS IMPORTANT
It is important to make sure the information you are getting about the coronavirus is coming directly from reliable sources like the CDC and NCDHHS. Be careful not to spread misinformation about coronavirus on social media.
NC CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE
The state also has a special hotline set up where you can call 866-462-3821 for more information on the coronavirus. You can also submit questions online at ncpoisoncontrol.org or select chat to talk with someone about the virus.
You can also text keyword VIRUS to WFMY News 2 at 336-379-5775 for the latest.
Stay connected to local, national, and breaking news: Download the WFMY News 2 app.
►Text the word APP to 336-379-5775