In a memo Friday, Starbucks said the worker who tested positive is isolated at home. The store where the patient worked is closed, and the local health department has given it the go-ahead to return to business following the cleaning, Starbucks said. It did not announce when it'll reopen.
"The frequent, additional cleaning and sanitizing procedures already underway in all our stores are fully in line with their guidance," said Rossann Williams, executive vice president. Seattle is the headquarters of the coffee giant, and the surrounding area has been the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak in the United States. Washington state has recorded 14 deaths, including at least seven at a longterm nursing facility, a major concern for the vulnerable elderly population.