A CHICKEN factory has been closed "with immediate effect" after a cluster of coronavirus cases emerged amongst staff.

Three workers at the 2 Sisters food processing plant in Coupar Angus, Perthshire, have tested positive for Covid-19.

Another two are awaiting test results.

The cluster is linked to cases outwith the 1000-strong workforce, with two linked cases identified within the wider community.

Arrangements are now being made for further testing of employees.

All close contacts are now being asked to self-isolate as contract tracers get in touch with those who have been in close promimity to the affected staff.

An Incident Management Team (IMT) is working with Scottish Government, Public Health Scotland and local environmental health teams to provide advice and support.

Local MSP John Swinney, the Deputy First Minister, said: “Where clusters of cases develop we must find them and act quickly to prevent further spread.

“Public health teams in Tayside are responding quickly to this outbreak and we are liaising closely with them, Food Standards Scotland and Perth and Kinross Council to discuss all appropriate measures to contain this cluster.

“However, individuals who have been in this plant should be extra vigilant, ensure they follow all public health advice, and if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 should isolate and book a test on the NHS website.”

Dr Emma Fletcher, director of public health at NHS Tayside, said: “NHS Tayside Public Health were alerted to the outbreak of COVID-19 associated with the 2 Sisters food processing plant yesterday. An Incident Management Team was convened and, working with the factory, measures were put in place to reduce the risk of further transmission of the virus.

“The people confirmed to have the infection and their close contacts in the community have been identified and advice provided. Further contact tracing within the factory setting is ongoing.

“Arrangements to provide testing for all factory workers are in process.”

Concerns about adherence to coronavirus control rules at the factory were raised in April, when police visited the site following reports from nearby residents that staff were congregating at the gates.

Wendy McColmes of Coupar Angus Community Council said it was a “matter of time” before a “mini epidemic” would break out.

However, factory managers said all relevant measures were in place and no further action was taken by authorities.

Today a 2 Sisters spokesperson said management at the site are “really upset and dismayed” after taking precautions from temperature testing to perspex screens.

A spokesman said: “Following the confirmation on August 16th of four positive Covid-19 cases at our site in Coupar Angus, we have decided to temporarily suspend operations and pause production on August 17th, which we believe is the responsible action to take.

“Our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of all colleagues, and we will be reviewing the situation closely in partnership with the relevant regional and national Scottish Covid-19 taskforces before we restart production.

“The facility had previously operated for six months without a single positive Covid-19 case recorded.”

Geoff Ogle, chief executive of Food Standards Scotland, said there is “no evidence that food is a source of coronavirus and it is very unlikely Covid-19 can be transmitted through the consumption of food or food packaging”.

However, he has advised consumers to follow “good hygiene practices” in the kitchen.

People with a high temperature or fever, a new continuous cough, or a change in their sense of smell or taste should book a test at nhsinform.scot/test-and-protect or call 0800 028 2816 if they are unable to access the online service.