TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — An associate at the Publix Super Market at Ocala Corners has tested positive for coronavirus, the company confirms to ABC 27.
On Tuesday, the company confirmed to ABC 27 that an associate who works at the store at 800 Ocala Road has tested positive for COVID-19.
When we asked about where the employee worked or when they were last in the store, they said they were unable to share additional details due to privacy laws.
"As an essential service provider, the health and well-being of our customers, associates and communities are our top priority. Like other essential service providers, we have seen our own associates and their families personally impacted by COVID-19," Publix wrote in a statement sent to ABC 27. "Unfortunately, as public health officials have indicated, we expect to see an increase in cases as the virus spreads in our communities."
The company said the employee has been quarantined and is on paid leave for 14 days to recover from the illness.
Per policy, associates who worked directly with the employee who tested positive have been notified, will be quarantined and placed on paid leave for up to 14 days.
"We are proud of how our dedicated associates are taking care of our customers and each other through this unprecedented and challenging time," the company wrote in a statement sent to ABC 27. "And, we thank our customers for continuing to trust us with providing them with the goods and services they need."
Prior to the positive tests locally, Publix has taken additional measures to protect shoppers in all its stores to include cutting store hours to allow for more time to disinfect, installing of plexiglass shields at registers, customer service desks and pharmacies, and an ongoing disinfection program focusing on high-touch surfaces like door handles and touch screens.
The company says they've also placed visual reminders for customers and associates to practice social distancing in all of its stores.
