Statement Regarding Confirmed Case of COVID-19 at ESIP

On Monday, 25 May, 2020, we received confirmation that a worker in our European Seafood Investment Portugal (ESIP) plant has tested positive for COVID-19.

The member of staff had reported feeling unwell on Wednesday 20th May and immediately reported to the on-site infirmary and was sent home. On Thursday and Friday their symptoms continued to develop and, on Saturday 23 May, a test was performed with positive results being received on Monday. The employee continues to self-isolate and is currently not displaying severe symptoms of COVID-19 or in any immediate danger.

Upon receipt of the positive test results, ESIP immediately informed all local health and government authorities and, as a precautionary measure, has sent home approximately 200 workers that were identified as in contact with the employee. These workers have not currently reported any symptoms indicating further cases of COVID-19. They are self-isolating at home and will receive full testing as a priority. Local health authorities have been provided with a full list of these people and will contact them to arrange testing and advise on next steps.

Following consultation with all relevant parties, ESIP remains open and is working closely with all local health and government authorities on measures to ensure no further spread of COVID-19 among the ESIP workforce. This includes the full disinfection of any areas used by the affected worker, including locker rooms, break areas and production lines. This has been carried out according to government and local health authority guidelines. ESIP continues to maintain robust anti-viral measures, including temperature checks at entrances, full use of PPE, regular hand sanitizing and increased cleaning regimes.

We will be able to provide further updates in due course.

For any enquiries, please contact:

John Merva
European Communications Manager, Thai Union
john.merva@thaiunion.com