Mash Monkeys Brewing Company in Sebastian has closed its tap room temporarily after some of its employees contracted the COVID-19 virus.

“We are saddened to announce that Covid-19 has affected the Mash Monkeys Brewing Co team. Our number one priority is the safety of our community, as well as our own staff. Consequently, we have decided to temporarily close our tap room. During this time, all team members will be tested for Covid. We will also be putting forth serious efforts to deep clean and sanitize our tap room. We apologize for any inconveniences, and appreciate the support from our loyal patrons during these difficult time,” the business said in a statement.

There have been other temporary business closures during the past month in Sebastian due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of hospitalizations and ICU patients have soared during the past month in Indian River County.

The CDC estimating that the Delta Variant accounts for more than 90% of new COVID cases in the U.S., scientists are still learning more about what makes this variant different from prior versions of the virus.

There are dozens of COVID-19 variants. Some emerge and quickly fade away. Others emerge and sweep the globe. The delta variant first emerged in India in December 2020 and quickly became the dominant strain there and then in the United Kingdom, before spreading to the United States and Florida.

On Friday, Indian River County issued a local State of Emergency amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

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