7-Eleven on Grand Avenue closed due to apparent COVID-19 case

A photo circulating on social media indicates the 7-Eleven convenience store at 10 Grand Avenue West in Chatham is closed, after a team member apparently tested positive for COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the CK Public Health Unit says they did not order the store to be closed.

“The health and safety of our customers, employees and the communities we serve is the top priority for 7-Eleven Canada,” the notice says, which is posted in the window of the Grand Avenue business in the photo.

“We have a team member with a confirmed case of COVID-19 at this store. We have temporarily closed the store to thoroughly clean and sanitize the location. We are asking staff to self-isolate with pay for 14 days per provincial health guidelines.”

The Sydenham Current has reached out to corporate officials with 7-Eleven for confirmation, but have yet to receive a response. However, published reports indicate the company has confirmed the information in a media release.

Multiple calls to the Grand Avenue 7-Eleven location has resulted in a busy signal.

The notice shown in the photo says 7-Eleven is asking any customers that “may have visited the store between July 20 and August 2” to call 811.

“For health guidance and information on actions you can take to protect yourself and others,” the notice says.

“7-Eleven Canada is working with local health authorities to determine next steps. Until more information is available, questions should be referred to your local health care provider. 7-Eleven Canada will provide further updates whenever possible.”

The notice says the store will re-open on or before August 15, 2020.

CK Public Health officials say “contrary to accounts on social media” they did not order the 7-Eleven convenience store at 10 Grand Avenue West in Chatham to be closed.

“Any risk to the Chatham-Kent community remains low,” CK Public Health officials said in a press release issued early on Monday morning, August 3, 2020.

“Close contacts of COVID-19 patients are directly contacted by CK Public Health and given further instructions. If you begin to experience symptoms of COVID-19, please self isolate and schedule an appointment for testing at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre.”

CK Public Health officials said in the press release they are encouraging the public to continue to follow public health measures during this time, including:

– Physical distancing of two metres must be maintained and face coverings can be worn indoors if physical distancing is not possible.

– Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with 70% alcohol frequently.

– Stay home if you’re not feeling well, and get tested for COVID-19.

“To see more updates and resources on COVID-19, please visit our COVID-19 page on our website,” CK Public Health officials say.

Watch for more on this story.

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