WILKESBORO, N.C. -- A Tyson Foods Inc. processing plant in central North Carolina has reopened after temporarily closing due a COVID-19 outbreak.

Public Relations Manager Derek Burleson says the plant was closed for deep cleaning and extra sanitation practices.

Tyson Foods wouldn't confirm the number of cases at the plant, which employs about 3,000 people, but health officials say it's caused spikes in confirmed cases in Wilkes and Forsyth Counties.

People in the community are reacting and former Tyson employee Rebecca Sweat said she's concerned about the employees because of the working conditions.

"We were back-to-back, side-to-side. That's the way it was, but it's my understanding they've been putting these plastic things on the sides. But, it still scares me because we're out here walking and I don't want to get close to anybody," explained Sweat.

Tyson Foods Director of Poultry Chad Martin said the company is taking steps to keep their employees and the surrounding communities safe.

Martin said employees who cannot social-distance at work will be provided with face shields, masks, and gloves for safety.