“Multiple cases” of COVID-19 discovered at Santa Clara County construction sites

Santa Clara County is calling for greater adherence to social distancing and safety protocols at construction sites after “multiple cases” of COVID-19 were detected among workers at four construction sites.

In a county news release issued on June 12, officials reported 10 confirmed cases and more than 30 potential exposures reported at a single Mountain View construction site. The construction company employer notified the county Public Health Department as soon as the results were learned and voluntarily closed the site.

“These cases emphasize the fact that we are still in the midst of a pandemic,” County Health Officer Dr. Sara Cody said in a statement. “With additional sectors reopening, it is vital that everyone carefully follow social distancing protocols to ensure that workers are safe. This includes keeping physical distance and wearing a face covering.”

In addition, two construction sites in San Jose and one in Milpitas have had between three and five cases each and have voluntarily closed at the request of the health department for investigation of possible exposure.

The health department says another nine sites have had at least one confirmed case and are working with the county to determine of any possible additional cases.

County officials said new cases are being monitored carefully to contain outbreaks, and working with employers and labor organizations on education about prevention practices and required protocols.

Construction was allowed to resume on May 4 under strict compliance “with safety and social distancing protocols specific to the construction industry,” the county said.