Apple closes three stores in US and Canada amid COVID-19 surge

Apple is closing extra shops in response to COVID-19’s resurgence. Bloomberg studies the iPhone maker has briefly shuttered three shops within the US and Canada following will increase in exposures and outbreaks amongst staff. Retailers in Annapolis (Annapolis Mall), Miami (Brickell Metropolis Centre) and the Canadian capital Ottawa (Rideau Centre) will stay closed till both December 18th or December nineteenth.

It isn’t clear what number of staff developed COVID-19 on the affected shops. In a press release to Bloomberg, Apple reiterated a previous assertion indicating that it “commonly monitor[s]” pandemic situations and has a “complete” retailer security initiative that features each day well being checks, masks, additional cleansing and paid sick depart. All employees should take COVID-19 assessments earlier than they return.

There is not any certainty closures like this may proceed within the close to future. With rising an infection charges and uncertainty across the new coronavirus’ Omicron variant, nonetheless, it will not be shocking if there are extra till this newest wave dies down.

The transfer additionally underscores the persistent dangers for retail workers at many shops, not simply Apple’s. Whereas many retail staff must put on masks and share their well being statuses, they can not essentially keep away from sick clients —and there are issues Apple retailer managers might have pressured subordinates to come back in regardless of exhibiting COVID-19 signs. Shops can reduce dangers, however they can not fully keep away from them as long as the illness persists.