McDonalds, High Street Penrith: Fears of Covid cluster

UPDATE: There are increased Covid spread fears after more cases were confirmed at a popular Penrith McDonalds.

UPDATE

Cases at a Penrith McDonald’s have increased to seven, health bosses have revealed.

The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District confirmed the additional two cases on Wednesday.

The spokesman said privacy reasons prevented the disclosure of any further details.

EARLIER

ON SEPTEMBER 28, 2021 @2.55PM

Multiple workers at one of Penrith’s most popular McDonalds have tested positive for Covid.

The restaurant was temporarily closed for cleaning on Sunday as a result of the five cases.

“McDonald’s Australia confirms it closed and conducted a deep clean of the Penrith High Street restaurant on Sunday 26 September, in accordance with directions provided by the NSW Department of Health,” the company said in a statement.

“Employees identified by the Department as potential close or casual contacts are currently isolating in accordance with standard COVIDSafe procedures.”

McDonalds on High Street in Penrith

The company however said there was no exposure risks to customers.

“The Department of Health has advised there is no risk to customers and the restaurant has reopened and continues to trade.

“McDonald’s Australia uses high-grade cleaning products throughout the strict cleaning, quality control and hygiene procedures in every shift at each of our restaurants.”

It is understood there were several cases among staff members although the company did not specify the number.

The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District confirmed there were now five cases linked to the McDonalds as on 8pm on Monday.

A spokeswoman said: “The NBMLHD Public Health team has worked with the venue to identify close contacts.

“Close contacts must immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days.

“The venue has been co-operating fully with the Public Health Unit.

“The venue has been thoroughly cleaned and was following public health advice including customers signing in using the Service NSW QR code, wearing masks and other infection control measures.”