Coronavirus: Science worker at Stormont tests positive for Covid-19

On Thursday afternoon, a spokeswoman for the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) said the body has been working with the Public Health Agency to ensure that anyone in contact with the employee receives the appropriate advice and medical attention.

She said: “AFBI can confirm that a member of staff, based at its Veterinary Sciences Division at Stormont, has tested positive for the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

“AFBI has worked with the Public Health Agency NI to ensure that anyone who had been in contact with the individual was identified and supported to receive medical attention if required, and to take all appropriate steps to contain any further spread of the virus and to protect the welfare of all within the Institute and the wider public.”

The Institute carries out research and development, as well as diagnostic and analytical testing, for Stormont’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and other government departments.

The AFBI spokeswoman added: “AFBI remains open and is operating as normal and AFBI’s management team are closely monitoring the situation.

“The Institute has provided guidance for staff and has encouraged all staff to follow the latest official guidance from the Public Health Agency NI and other relevant authorities.”