Spike in COVID cases disrupting business operations – employers
A spike in COVID-19 cases is disrupting business activity as workers calling sick further compound staffing challenges faced by employers. Malta Employers’ Association (MEA) director-general Joseph Farrugia told Times of Malta that apart from operational disruption, employers were also concerned about the spread of the virus among workers. “The current spike in COVID cases is inevitably leading to a surge in sick leave, which is higher than normally experienced during this time of year,” Farrugia said. “This is causing disruptions in the operation of many companies which, besides dealing with the absence, are also concerned about the spread of the disease among employees and clients.” There are currently 7,161 active COVID cases in Malta, the highest since April 17, when the number stood at 7,450. Farrugia added that some businesses were considering adopting mitigation measures among staff to contain the spread of the disease. “Some are contemplating reintroducing the wearing of masks at the workplace. The problem is compounded by the fact that some sectors, notably tourism, are also suffering from a serious shortage of employees and this is leading to a downscaling of...