Tyson Foods has closed operations in Columbus Junction temporarily after employees tested positive for COVID-19. In a statement, CEO Noel White said the company is increasing efforts to protect employees while continuing to provide food. The Columbus Junction pork plant has had operations suspended this week after more than two dozen cases of COVID-19 involving team members at the facility. The livestock scheduled to go to the Louisa County plant is being diverted to other pork plants in the region.

White’s statement explained that staff has been taking the temperature of workers at all locations before they enter facilities and efforts to deep clean and sanitize have been stepped up, especially in employee break rooms and locker rooms. In addition, the company is promoting more social distancing, installing dividers between workstations, and working to secure personal protective equipment for employees including face coverings.