Thread by @MikeQReports

Several workers at @WholeFoods have tested positive for the #coronavirus at the Logan Circle store.

At least one worker said cases have popped up since last month, the store has not been shut down for a deep cleaning, and shoppers not being told @wusa9 wusa9.com/article/news/l…

The Amazon worker stationed at store wanted to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation but is calling for more to be done.

The worker forwarded WUSA9 several emails that confirm at least 4 of their coworkers tested positive for COVID-19. @wusa9 #GetUpDC

WUSA9 first reported more than a dozen coronavirus cases at the Logan Circle Whole Foods store, according to the worker who asked to remain anonymous.

WUSA9 was only able to independently confirm at least four cases. Whole Foods has not responded to requests for official number

The employee claimed the store was never shut down for a deep cleaning and more employees got sick after the first reported case. @wusa9 #GetUpDC

wusa9.com/article/news/l…

WUSA9 reached out to @WholeFoods about the employee’s concerns, and a spokesperson responded with the following statement:

@wusa9 #GetUpDC

wusa9.com/article/news/l…

Grocery stores are provided with health guidance from @_DCHealth regarding COVID-19 to help ensure health and safety.

Health Department said: “Essential businesses are not required by law to notify the public when an employee tests positive for COVID-19.” @wusa9 #GetUpDC

Whole Foods said it has enhanced its cleaning protocols, implemented social distancing and crowd control guidelines, installed plexiglass partitions at registers, performs daily temperature check screenings, and employees required to wear face masks.
@WholeFoods @wusa9 #GetUpDC

UPDATE: @WholeFoods spokesperson confirms positive COVID-19 cases but refuses to say how many. The company also clarifies that it has done deep cleaning after hours in the following statement:

@wusa9 #GetUpDC

wusa9.com/article/news/l…

A @WholeFoods spokesperson has reported to other publications the claim that an employee told me about the stores not being cleaned are untrue.

The spokesperson only told me this information AFTER the story aired despite the concerned being raised two days before air date.

I mentioned in my initial email that “workers are also claiming the store has not been shut down for a deep cleaning.”

The response received in statement: “Because of the thorough nature of our daily enhanced cleaning procedures and our escalated safety protocols, our stores...”

“...are remaining open to serve our communities under the guidance of health officials.”

The information that was provided was added to the digital copy when it was given AFTER the story aired despite the concern of deep cleaning being raised two days prior.