According to an Associated Press article from The Gazette, a beef processing plant in Tama, Iowa has reopened despite 177 workers testing positive for COVID-19.

The report states that production at the Iowa Premium plant, owned by Natural Beef, was originally shut down after several workers had confirmed cases of the virus. But, a woman who answered the phone at the plant told The Gazette that the production has, in fact, resumed today.

This isn't the first we've heard of plant workers testing positive for the virus. Earlier this month, the Tyson Foods pork plant in Columbus Junction suspended operations after more than two dozen workers tested positive for COVID-19. That particular plant has remained closed.

If there's any chance of the virus being around our food, why risk it? Especially considering more and more restrictions are being put in place. Just last week, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds proclaimed in a press conference, that Linn County, along with other counties in the level 10, Region 6 (graphic below) should only gather with people in the same household. She also announced that Iowa schools would not reopen for the remainder of the school year.

Iowa Department of Public Health
Iowa Department of Public Health
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Despite stricter guidelines in place in certain areas in the state, some companies continue operate. Let's just hope that those companies are taking the necessary procedures and precautions to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Please make sure you are following the necessary guidelines, as well, and doing your part to protect yourself, your family, and others in the community during the pandemic. You can stay up to date with the latest information surrounding the coronavirus HERE.

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