LAUREL, MISS. – Joe F. Sanderson Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms, said during a conference call on April 2 that 15 employees tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The poultry processor said another 36 people are awaiting test results.

Sanderson said that as of April 1, 204 employees were under home quarantine after experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and 152 people have recovered and returned to work. On March 23, Sanderson announced that its first employee tested positive with COVID-19.

Additionally, Sanderson revealed that it is directing 415 employees at its Moultrie, Ga., processing plant to quarantine at home with pay for 14 days. Many of the employees live in Dougherty County, Ga., which has seen a spike in cases recently. Sanderson said that the plant is now running at half of its average capacity.

Sanderson said that any person who exhibits symptoms will be sent home with pay.

The company is also taking the temperature of anyone entering its facility. Any person who has a temperature higher than 100° F is asked to see a health care provider.

Last week, the company stated that it would implement a temporary weekly attendance bonus for employees, equivalent to $1 an hour for each hour worked. The incentive began on March 30 and ends June 26.