By Catharin Shepard • Staff writer • A post office worker in Raeford has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement Monday from the United States Postal Service (USPS).

The postal service did not say what job the employee holds with the USPS. The service has already cleaned the post office building on Elwood Avenue, communications specialist Philip Bogenberger said in an email.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Surgeon General currently believe there is no proof that COVID-19 can spread through the mail and packages, according to officials. (See the CDC FAQ here and a WHO statement here.)

USPS administrators plan to follow local health officials’ recommendations on taking any further action.

“We have reached out to the local public health office and will follow the guidance they provide. We have informed employees who work at the facility and believe the risk is low for them, but we will keep them apprised as new information and guidance becomes available,” the USPS office in Charlotte said in a statement.

The USPS can’t give out specific employee medical information because it’s considered confidential under federal law.

“The safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority. To ensure the health of our employees, we are continuing to follow recommended guidance and strategies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” the statement said.

The News-Journal continued Monday afternoon seeking more information in the story.