A worker at Lincoln Premium Poultry has died after being diagnosed with COVID-19, officials said Monday.
“We are heartbroken to learn that we lost a team member and are working to assist the family as they sort through the next steps,” said Jessica Kolterman, Director of Corporate and External Affairs.
A news release states that the employee had an underlying health condition that was worsened by the virus. The employee had not been at work since April 17, after asking to self-quarantine due to an underlying health issue.
“The company honored the request and only learned last week on Thursday that the employee had been diagnosed with the virus,” said Kolterman. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time and we ask that the press respects their privacy as they mourn the loss, as well as the privacy of LPP team members who have lost a colleague.”
Lincoln Premium Poultry reported an additional 13 additional cases of COVID-19 over the past week, bringing the company total to 28 cases. Officials said four people have recovered and returned to work.
Lincoln Premium Poultry said it has provided the opportunity for individuals over 65 to self-isolate at home, with pay. Individuals who test positive as well as individuals with known direct contact with a person who has tested positive are also self-isolating at home with pay.
Lincoln Premium Poultry said it has implemented additional protection measures recommended by UNMC, including additional screening, strict mandatory use of masks, and additional deep cleaning. The company had previously limited visitors to the facility, stopped food service and installed dividers on tables, provided further space between workers, implemented nightly intense cleaning interventions, is taking the temperature of all entering their facilities and had provided masks to their workforce. They have also provided a $2/hour increase to all hourly workers, which began in March, and are regularly providing chicken for their team members.
“Words cannot express how proud we are of the team at Lincoln Premium Poultry. In spite of this challenge, they have continued producing at our projected production levels and have continued to provide product to Costco Warehouses here in Nebraska and across the western part of this country. As fewer products are available, LPP’s team has demonstrated great commitment to providing food for our country,” said Kolterman.
