COVID-19 outbreak at Scotlynn Group Farm reaches 120 cases

Norfolk Mayor Kristal Chopp confirmed yesterday that the number of positive cases at the Scotlynn Group Farm in Norfolk County has reached 120.

“We have always understood that this was a risk that our community could face and our health unit has been preparing for this possibility,” said Chopp in a Facebook post. Most of those infected are migrant workers from Mexico.

The Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit said the liaison official for the Mexican consulate has been updated and is available to speak to workers. They have also notified the federal agency that supervises the temporary foreign worker program. They say that the Delhi Community Health Centre is also assisting in the response.

The Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit says that all migrant workers self-isolated for two weeks when they first arrived in Canada.

“Scott Biddle has since the start of this pandemic did everything that was asked of him, and more, by our Health Unit,” said Copp. “Unfortunately, even with the best efforts, he is now dealing with a COVID-19 outbreak and his operations have been severely impacted.”

The health unit says most of the positive cases are asymptomatic. While seven people have been hospitalized.

Chopp says Scotlynn Farms is now looking for help to harvest asparagus. She says they will pay $25.00 per hour for each member of a team.

“I ask that you please consider stepping up during this time of crisis, get a group of 5 friends together, enjoy some days under the sun and make a few dollars for your efforts,” said Chopp. “If you have a group of 5 able to work, they are looking for approximately 30 teams.”

You can call 1-800-263-9117 ext. 2225. to volunteer.

CHCH News will update the latest during the Evening News at 6:00 p.m.