Facebook closes Seattle office after worker sickened

Facebook says it’s temporarily closing an office in Seattle after a worker was diagnosed with the new virus.

“A contractor based in our Stadium East office has been diagnosed with the COVID-19,” the company says. “We’ve notified our employees and are following the advice of public health officials to prioritize everyone’s health and safety.”

Facebook says the last time the worker came to the office was on February 21, so it will shut the office until March 9, when the incubation period ends. The company is following guidance from local authorities and encouraging Seattle staff to work from home until March 31.

An Amazon employee at the e-commerce giant’s Seattle office also reportedly tested positive for the virus this week.

— AP