The total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases within the Grantown community is currently 31, of which 29 are linked with Millers of Speyside abattoir.
NHS Highland has announced the abattoir has taken the decision to close for a period of two weeks.
The abattoir has taken the voluntary decision to shut and the company has been cooperating with the investigation into the outbreak.
In accordance with national guidance, NHS Highland’s Health Protection Team has undertaken case follow up.
The health board said contact tracing is being carried out with all those identified as close contacts being advised to self-isolate.
Any close contacts of positive cases “will be identified through this route – if you have not been contacted by our Health Protection Team please be reassured that there is no cause for concern”.
It added that there is “currently no evidence that food is a source of Covid-19, and it is very unlikely it can be transmitted through the consumption of food”.
Food Standard Scotland (FSS) staff working at the plant are aware of the positive cases and are following the necessary health protection advice, including following Scotland’s Test and Protect and self-isolating
NHS Highland is aware of links with the care sector and is taking appropriate measures.
It has also, given the increase in numbers in the local area, advised local care homes to suspend visiting with immediate effect.
Dr Tim Allison, director of public health with NHS Highland, said: “NHS Highland and partners are working together to manage this community outbreak.
“Our Health Protection Team is following up with contacts and the appropriate advice is being given to those identified.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the virus can recur even in rural communities and so everyone should continue to adhere to physical distancing guidelines, wear a face-covering when in enclosed spaces, clean your hands and surfaces regularly and immediately self-isolate if you develop symptoms.”
The Highland Council said it is working with NHS Highland, the Public Health Protection Team and other partners in a joint approach to tackle the situation in Grantown and to support people affected in the area.
Deshar Primary Nursery in Boat of Garten has been closed but the primary school remains open.
The nursery is shut until September 8 on the advice of Public Health as part of their Test and Protect investigation.
All Highland Council educational settings are following rigorous controls including enhanced cleaning, and hand hygiene and the wearing of face coverings in secondary schools in corridors and at break out times.
Highland Schools are following Scottish Government national guidelines, and individuals should follow the FACTS guidance.
If anyone requires to self-isolate and they need support, e.g. with food supplies or financial assistance, they should contact the council’s Freephone Helpline on 0300 303 1362.
People wishing to volunteer their help should also contact this number.
Environmental Health will liaise with businesses with possible connections to positive Covid-19 cases to check the Covid-19 controls in place at the business.
The team are able to provide advice to any businesses that have queries on the Covid-19 guidance, queries can be sent to to envhealth@highland.gov.uk
