An outbreak at the Walmart in Airdrie has led to the temporary closure of the supercentre for the next ten days.

The Walmart closed to customers Thursday night and a sign posted on the doors confirms the store will not reopen until June 6.

In a statement sent to Discover Airdrie, the company said several employees tested positive, prompting the closure.

"We’re keeping the associates in our thoughts and wish them a speedy recovery. All associates will be paid while the store remains closed," the statement reads.

"Out of an abundance of caution, when an associate who works in one of our stores is confirmed as having tested positive, associates identified as being in close prolonged contact are directed to self-isolate."

In a notice sent to Walmart suppliers, the employees that recently tested positive last worked at the Airdrie centre from May 9-22.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) confirmed that the closure was done voluntarily by the company.

A statement from AHS said "a cluster of COVID-19 cases at the store were linked by AHS public health officials to workplace transmission."

"Workplaces in high-case areas with onsite transmission of three or more cases are required to close for 10 days under the current public health orders."

Several social media posts showed Airdrie customers were caught off guard by the announcement Thursday night, with many stocking up on groceries and other items, reportedly leading to hours-long waits and the store going overcapacity.

We reached out to Walmart Canada to comment on the capacity issues and have yet to hear back.

AHS said one complaint was filed to them through their online portal on Thursday night.

Outbreaks have also been declared at other Walmarts in Alberta including the centre in Cochrane, which remains open.

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