Covid-19 outbreak at Smethwick supermarket after eight workers test positive

Sandwell Council and Public Health England have been notified of the Covid-19 outbreak linked to the Asda supermarket in Cape Hill.

No delivery drivers have been infected, Asda has confirmed. The supermarket remains open to customers.

Dr Lisa McNally, Sandwell's director of public health, said: "We are grateful to Asda for their prompt response to this incident.

“The current high infection rates in Smethwick mean that all businesses need to be especially careful to maintain social distancing on their premises and ensure face coverings are worn.

“Local people in Smethwick are reminded that this virus can be fatal. We are strongly advising everyone to avoid crowds and social gatherings as much as possible right now.

“This is a serious situation and we all need to be very careful.”

In a statement today, Asda said: “A small number of colleagues at the Cape Hill store have tested positive and immediately self-isolated.

“As soon as we became aware, we notified Public Health England and Sandwell Council and enacted a comprehensive deep clean at the store, while introducing additional cleaning.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues is our top priority and we have introduced extensive measures across all our stores to help keep everyone safe, including protective screens at every checkout, social distancing signage and hand sanitiser.”

Sandwell Council’s deputy leader, Councillor Maria Crompton, added: “It’s vital businesses keep their employees safe. This is another reminder that everyone – wherever they live, work or visit – needs to stay vigilant.

“The virus is still out there and the situation remains very serious.”

Asda have worked with public health staff to put all appropriate actions in place. Sandwell Council say the risk to the public is thought to be low.