COVID-19 cluster found at Macon County farm
Macon County Public Health has identified a cluster of 9 people who have tested positive at Norton Creek Farms. Employees who have tested positive are isolated from others. All of the farm workers who have potentially been exposed to these individuals have been contacted and will be tested for COVID-19.
In addition to Norton Creek Farms employees, MCPH is working to identify any additional close contacts of these individuals. The CDC defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with an infection with COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time of 10 minutes or longer. Based on information provided by the individual, county health officials will assess risks of exposure, determine which if any additional measures are needed such as temperature and symptom checks, quarantine and/or testing.
MCPH’s Medical Director and Norton Creek Farms are working together to limit the spread of COVID-19 among farm workers and the community. Norton Creek Farm owner, Nathan Moss, has said of the farm’s precautions for COVID-19, “We have use the strongest precautions possible to keep our farm workers and community safe, and will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our workers and community.”
https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance.
MCPH regularly updates our Facebook page with accurate and current information regarding COVID-19; we encourage the public to check our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/MaconPublicHealth for up-to-date information.
Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, other lower respiratory illness (shortness of breath). If you believe that you may have COVID-19, please call the Health Department at 828-349-2517. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am – 5:00pm, until further notice.
