One seasonal worker at a fish plant in Wrangell has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement from the City of Wrangell on June 19.

That means the plant will shut down for some time for deep cleaning, based on protocols Sea Level outlines in its Covid-19 mitigation plan filed with the state. 

A statement from the Oregon-based Pacific Seafoods says the worker tested negative before coming to town and once while in modified quarantine at the plant. The third test came back positive. The asymptomatic worker is in isolation and speaking with state public health officials.

Sea Level has brought 26 workers to town this month to supply its seasonal workforce. These workers are tested four times before their modified quarantine is up. During that time they are already working at the plant in groups, based on when they arrived. These workers are instructed to stay at the plant and not interact with the community.

The City of Wrangell has allocated $60,000 to pay for this testing.