Major supermarket chain LIDL has had to temporarily close its Ħal Safi store to disinfect it after one of its employees tested positive for COVID-19.

Superintendent of Public Health Charmaine Gauci made the announcement while speaking on Bonġu Kafè, on Radio Malta, adding that the risk of customers having been infected is low.

She did however appeal to those who entered the supermarket between 26-30th March to monitor themselves. Should any acute symptoms appear, such as loss of taste and smell, coughing, fever and shortness of breath, to phone the helpline number - 111.

Prof. Gauci commended LIDL’s management for cooperating and closing the establishment immediately. She said after the establishment is cleaned according to guidelines and the Department of Public Health is assured there is no more risk, it may then reopen.