More Chick-fil-A workers test positive for COVID-19 at 2 closed stores in Texas city

Fifteen workers from two Chick-fil-A restaurants in Beaumont, Texas, have tested positive for coronavirus, according to media reports.

The Chick-fil-A on College Street is now “closed for planned maintenance,” according to the restaurant’s website, while the Dowlen Road restaurant is “temporarily closed.” Beaumont is in Southeast Texas, around 85 miles east of Houston.

The restaurants closed when four employees tested positive for the virus, Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick told KFDM. More than 100 employees were then tested and had to be quarantined, KFDM reported.

Tests were completed “using a private contract medical care facility,” and 11 additional workers from the restaurants tested positive, KBMT reported.

People who have recently visited the restaurants are encouraged by Texas physician Gary Mennie to be screened for coronavirus testing, according to KBMT.

The Dowlen Road location has a sign outside reading, “Our restaurant is following CDC guidance and taking precautions to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and we look forward to serving you again soon,” according to KFDM.

Earlier this month, Chick-fil-A workers were given “face masks or other face coverings,” the restaurant chain stated. Locations with drive-thru’s also added outdoor hand-washing stations for workers.

Some of the restaurants of the national chain have started going cashless or are strongly encouraging customers to pay using credit card or their mobile app, according to Business Insider.

“Team Members should wash their hands a minimum of every 30 minutes and every time they interact with cash,” Chick-fil-A stated. “We also have provided Purell Wipes as a way for Team Members to regularly sanitize their hands in addition to handwashing. They also are frequently disinfecting other items they may touch.”