Volkswagen Chattanooga is reporting that the number of positive coronavirus cases among individuals who've entered the plant since mid-March has risen to 26.
The automaker reported in mid-June there were 12 cases among its employees, contractors and suppliers since May 17 when production returned to the plant.
Individuals who test positive go on medical leave and quarantine for the recommended 14 days, according to the factory.
"We follow CDC protocols, and all general areas that may have been exposed to these individuals received additional cleaning and disinfection," the company said in a statement. "Contact tracing is conducted. Per protocol, badge access was deactivated and the individuals cannot return to the plant until given medical clearance."
The plant employs about 3,800 people in Chattanooga. Production workers returned in May after a nearly two month shutdown due to the coronavirus and the company said it instituted an array of changes for the return related to employee safety.
This is a developing story. Stay with the Times Free Press for updates.