Quincy Natural Foods announces positive case; precautions taken
Quincy Natural Foods Co-op announced today that it had an employee test positive for coronavirus.
A statement to the community began: Our Co-op is a mission and values-driven community-owned entity. As such, transparency and information sharing are integral parts of organization. We are always striving to be as honest and straightforward as possible with our staff, customers, and the community at large.”
The co-op remains open with safety precautions in place.
“While we are unable to share any specific information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA) Act, we can notify you that the employee’s last day of work was December 10th,” the announcement read. “They are in isolation and doing well. Any Co-op staff who have been determined to have been “exposed”* to the affected employee have been sent home (with pay) to self-isolate until they reach the end of their quarantine period.**”
The Co-op said that it has thoroughly disinfected workspaces that may have been used and that it continues to follow all recommended guidelines from public health authorities, including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and county and state public health departments to ensure everyone’s safety.
“Any appearance of COVID-19 is distressing and worrying, but it also reinforces why we have such rigorous practices in place: stringent mask policies, robust hygiene hand washing policies, generous and proactive Wellness benefits, and a dedication to in-store sanitization will help keep everyone safe,” the announcement read. “Supporting our staff is one of our paramount priorities; please help protect our staff by diligently wearing your mask correctly and staying home when ill or when in contact with those who are ill.”
As a reminder, per the California state mandate, face coverings are required on Quincy Natural Foods Co-op property at all times. Other critical safety measures:
• Wear a mask at all times in public.
• Wear your mask across your nose, mouth and chin.
• Keep at least 6 feet distance between yourself and others when in public.
• Wash your hands well and often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Keep holiday celebrations and other gatherings to those within your “bubble”.
• Monitor yourself for symptoms. If you present symptoms or have concerns about being exposed, you should seek testing.
Curbside Pickup is available for those seeking the convenience and safety of ordering groceries online and delivered to their car. It is easy to use, convenient and we encourage you to give it a try.
*According to Plumas County Public Health, an “exposed” co-worker is someone who worked within 6 feet of the affected individual for at least 15 minutes straight and in an enclosed area.
** Plumas County Health Dept. considers the quarantine period to be 14 days
