On December 4, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health declared an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Cargill Limited facility on Dunlop Drive in Guelph. Over the course of the past week, Public Health has completed a full infection prevention and control (IPAC) review of the plant, as well as the testing of approximately 200 individuals related to the affected area. Today, Cargill Limited has agreed to voluntarily idle the affected portion of the facility effective December 17.
As of December 17 at 2:00 p.m., 82 individuals at the Dunlop facility have tested positive for COVID-19. As of 2:00 p.m., 129 individuals (both cases and close contacts) are self-isolating as a precaution. Because of the scope of the outbreak there is a small but serious risk of transmission to the general community. WDG Public Health continues to follow up with cases and trace their contacts.
“All outbreaks are serious,” said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, Associate Medical Officer of Health. “However, when we see an outbreak of this size, we must use all of the tools available to us to contain the outbreak and ensure the community at large is protected.”
“I want to thank Cargill for their complete participation in containing this outbreak,” said Dr. Tenenbaum. “As cases rise in our region, we will be at more risk for outbreaks. That’s why we must do all we can to keep cases low and respond quickly to any outbreaks.”
No immediate action is required by members unless directed by Public Health. Residents who have questions or concerns can find more information on the COVID-19 Information page.
Media Contact
Danny Williamson
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4376