A TOTAL of 21 workers at Hinkley Point C are self-isolating after testing positive for Covid-19.

An EDF Energy spokesman said none of the workers with the virus has been taken to hospital.

Anyone identified as a close contact of a positive case has been contacted by the NHS Test and Trace Service and asked to isolate.

A joint statement from Somerset County Council, Public Health England and EDF Energy says: "Twenty-one members of staff at Hinkley Point C, out of a daily workforce of over 4,000, are currently self-isolating after testing positive for coronavirus.

"Anyone identified as a close contact of a positive case is contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service and asked to self-isolate.

"A number of close contacts of the cases have been quickly identified and are also self-isolating for the recommended 14 days, even if they aren’t displaying symptoms.

"Contacts of a confirmed case should only get tested if they start displaying symptoms.

"Public Health England and Somerset County Council are supporting EDF Energy by undertaking risk assessments, providing advice and giving support and guidance on infection prevention control and what to do if someone starts to show symptoms or tests positive.

"Anyone not identified as a close contact does not need to self-isolate or book a test unless they start to develop symptoms."

Trudi Grant, director of Public Health at Somerset County Council, praised the Hinkley workers for self-isolating as soon as they started showing symptoms, getting tested and continuing to self-isolate until their test results were known.

She added: “Hinkley Point C acted quickly when staff first started displaying symptoms, supported staff to get tested and deep cleaned areas with the aim to prevent further spread.

“This is very much a reminder that coronavirus is here, circulating in our workplaces, and communities and it’s up to us all to prevent its spread.

"It’s important we follow the guidance – hands, face and space - i.e. observe social distancing, wash hands thoroughly and regularly and wear face coverings when appropriate if you can and self-isolate and book a test if you start to display symptoms.”

Nigel Cann, delivery director at Hinkley Point C, said: "The safety of the local community and our workforce is our primary concern.

"Our testing regime is allowing us to identify cases and stop the spread of infection.

"We have recently strengthened our already robust protection measures and we won’t hesitate to take further action if necessary.”