Cases of the serious bacterial infection were reported at Amazon BHX4 at Lyons Park
Cases were identified at Amazon BHX4 at Lyons Park(Image: CoventryLive)
Concerns over a tuberculosis outbreak at a Coventry Amazon facility were reportedly ignored, it has been claimed. Cases of the serious bacterial infection have recently been identified at Lyons Park.
Ten individuals were found to have non-contagious TB, and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) initiated a screening programme in September 2025. Amazon said no new cases have been identified and operations remain unaffected.
Union GMB called for all staff to be sent home and medically suspended on full pay ‘until appropriate infection control measures are implemented.’ But Amazon said it is following NHS and UKHSA guidelines and taking recommended precautions, as previously reported by CoventryLive.
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Some 2,000 people are employed at Amazon BHX4 on Sayer Drive. One told CoventryLive that the way information had been shared was ‘troubling.’
He said: “While TB is a serious infectious disease that understandably causes concern, the way this situation was communicated to employees was troubling. Internal guidance given to managers focused heavily on talking points, instructing them on what to say to staff rather than encouraging openness, transparency, or meaningful reassurance.
“Workers were repeatedly told that the risk was ‘low’ while being given minimal information and little opportunity to ask questions or express concerns without fear. For a disease like TB, which carries long-term health implications and stigma, this approach feels dismissive.
“Employees are not just numbers or operational resources, they are human beings with families, health worries, and a right to clear and timely information when their wellbeing may be affected. Serious illnesses in the workplace should be handled with honesty and compassion, not carefully managed scripts.”
A spokesman for Amazon said: “Nothing is more important than the safety and wellbeing of our team members. Last year, ten people who work at our Coventry fulfilment centre tested positive for non-contagious TB.
“In line with best practice safety procedures, we immediately followed guidance from the NHS and UK Health Security Agency and made all potentially affected employees aware of the situation. Out of an abundance of caution, we are currently running an expanded screening programme with the NHS.”
Dr Roger Gajraj, from the UK Health Security Agency West Midlands, said: “The small number of individuals affected by tuberculosis (TB) are responding well to treatment and are no longer infectious, so pose no onward risk.
“As a precaution, and in line with national guidance, we are offering testing to those who may have had closer contact with the affected individuals. The overall risk remains low.
“TB is fully treatable with antibiotics. We continue to work closely with Amazon to monitor the situation.”
But Coventry MP Taiwo Owatemi highlighted the importance of employers prioritising staff wellbeing. She said: “While it has been stated that NHS guidance is being followed, this situation understandably raises serious questions about workplace safety and infection control.
“Amazon has a clear responsibility to look after its employees and to ensure that the working environment is safe, transparent, and responsive to legitimate health concerns. Workers should never feel that productivity is being prioritised over their health.
“Employees deserve reassurance, clear communication, and confidence that their employer is acting in their best interests. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and expect Amazon to work constructively with the NHS, public health authorities, and GMB to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to safeguard workers.”
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