Burgers’ Smokehouse suspends production after more employees test positive for COVID-19

CALIFORNIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Burgers' Smokehouse in California announced on Wednesday that it suspended operations until next week after more employees tested positive for COVID-19.

Company officials said the decision was made based on information from the Moniteau County Health Center.

According to a release from the company, at least 21 employees have tested positive for novel coronavirus. About 300 people are employed at the facility.

Burgers' plans to reopen on April 30. The company halted production for two days last week after six employees had tested positive for COVID-19.

"We will maintain rigorous mitigation efforts, including enhanced wellness checks, required mask use and strictly enforced distancing measures, to maintain a safe work environment upon return to full production next Thursday."

Burger's Smokehouse

The release said all employees will be paid while normal operations are suspended.

The Moniteau County Health Center said Tuesday night that there are 33 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

A Facebook post from the health center said there are 26 more probable cases of novel coronavirus. Health officials say those with probable cases are still awaiting test results, but it's very likely they will test positive.

The health center confirmed 11 new cases of COVID-19 since Tuesday.