Tyson Foods and Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department Release Covid-19 Testing Results at Madison, Nebraska Plant
Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) and Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department (ELVPHD) have disclosed the results of a comprehensive COVID-19 testing at Tyson’s pork plant in Madison, Nebraska. The plant had temporarily ceased operations for thorough cleaning and sanitization. Out of the 1,467 employees and contractors at the facility, 212 tested positive for the virus. This total includes 112 individuals identified through mass testing and 100 individuals identified through local health care providers. Among those tested during the mass testing event, 74 individuals were asymptomatic and would not have been identified otherwise. Employees who test positive are granted paid leave and can only return to work once they meet the criteria set by both the CDC and Tyson. Most of the individuals identified by local health care providers are considered to be recovered at this time. Tom Brower, Senior Vice President of Health and Safety for Tyson Foods, emphasized that the health and safety of their team members is their top priority. He appreciated the support of ELVPHD in their testing efforts and prevention measures. Tyson will continue to disclose verified test results at other plants to health and government officials, team members, and stakeholders as part of its efforts to help communities better understand and prevent the spread of the virus. The Madison facility conducted mass testing from May 1 to May 4 while the plant was temporarily closed for deep cleaning and sanitization. Employees at the facility will have access to daily clinical symptom screenings, nurse practitioners, and enhanced education. Tyson has also implemented protective measures that meet or exceed CDC and OSHA guidance for preventing COVID-19. Tyson has increased short-term disability coverage to 90% of normal pay until June 30 to encourage employees to stay home when they are sick. The company has also doubled its “thank you” bonus for its frontline workers. Employees who cannot come to work because of illness or childcare issues related to COVID-19 will continue to qualify. Steve Stouffer, Group President, Tyson Fresh Meats, stated that Tyson, as the largest food company in the United States, is committed to leading during this unprecedented time. They will continue to prioritize safety and explore new ways to keep their employees healthy and protect their communities. About Tyson Foods Tyson Foods, Inc. is a global food company and a recognized leader in protein. The company was founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson and has grown under three generations of family leadership. Tyson Foods continually innovates to make protein more sustainable, tailor food for everywhere it’s available and raise the world’s expectations for how much good food can do. The company is headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, and has 141,000 team members. Tyson Foods strives to operate with integrity, create value for its shareholders, customers, communities and team members and serve as a steward of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it. Visit TYSONFOODS.COM. ### Media Contact: Morgan Watchous