Paytm employee tests positive for coronavirus, offices to remain shut
What's the story
An employee of Paytm tested positive for the coronavirus in Gurugram, making it the 29th case in India. The company made the announcement on Wednesday and also said that offices in Gurugram and Noida will be closed for the next two days. Reportedly, the employee who contracted the virus traveled to Italy recently and his team members were told to get tests done, immediately.
Context
It started in China, spread across the world
The deadly outbreak happened last year in China's Wuhan province and soon spread to nearly 50 countries. In China alone, the virus, whose vaccine is yet to be developed, killed over 3,500 people and it has infected 100,00 people around the globe. The virus made landfall in India earlier this year after three people in Kerala tested positive. They were released after recovery.
Details
Italian tourists tested positive, schools in Noida were shut
Later, a man in Delhi and a techie of Bengaluru tested positive. The former had hosted a party only recently and some of the attendees complained of symptoms too. This week, two schools in Noida were shut as well. Separately, 16 Italians touring India tested positive for the virus and have been quarantined at the ITBP facility in Chhawla, Delhi.
Statement
The employee went to Italy for a vacation: Paytm
About its employee getting infected, Paytm said, "One of our colleagues based out of Gurgaon (now Gurugram) office who recently returned from Italy post a vacation has sadly been tested positive for Coronavirus. He is receiving appropriate treatment and we are extending complete support to his family." All six offices will remain closed and the company has announced a two-day leave for all employees.
Quote
Paytm's operations will continue as usual
"We have also advised all our colleagues to work from home for a couple of days while we get our offices sanitized. However, there will not be any impact on our daily operations and Paytm services will continue as usual," the spokesperson added.