U.S. Marine tests positive for COVID-19 while in quarantine

Photo By Sgt. Lydia Gordon | U.S. Marines and Sailors with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, walk across the flight line at the Royal Australian Air Force Base, Darwin, NT, Australia, March 3, 2021. In compliance with Northern Territory Health Authorities, Marines and Sailors received a documented negative COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to deployment, a medical screening prior to travel, another test upon arrival, and a final test with a negative result to exit a mandatory 14-day quarantine. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Lydia Gordon)  

DARWIN, NT, AUSTRALIA

02.14.2021

Story by Capt. Thomas deVries 

Marine Rotational Force - Darwin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DARWIN, Australia – On Feb. 13, 2021, a U.S. Marine currently stationed in Darwin tested positive for COVID-19 while undergoing their initial 14-day quarantine period upon entering Australia.

In accordance with Australian Government travel guidance, the service member had received a negative COVID-19 test in the United States prior to deploying to the Northern Territory.

Since departing the U.S., service members have been kept in small groups and have worn face masks to limit the amount of close contacts and transmission potential during travel.

The service member is currently under isolation at Royal Darwin Hospital, in accordance with Australian health protocols. All interactions with this service member have been identified and all contacts remain in quarantine until further testing.

Medical specialists will continue to monitor the health and safety of all U.S service members. Should any other service members develop COVID-19 symptoms, they will be safely taken to Royal Darwin Hospital for follow on observation, testing, and treatment.

All U.S. service members will continue their mandatory 14-day quarantine period, as scheduled, and obtain a documented negative COVID-19 test prior to exiting quarantine.

Marine Rotational Force – Darwin is confident in the abilities of both our U.S Navy and Australian medical professionals to recognize and respond swiftly to protect the local community and our service members. We are working closely with our Australian Defence Force counterparts and local government, as safeguarding the health of the Australian citizens is our utmost priority.

• Date Taken: 02.14.2021
• Date Posted: 04.30.2021 03:02
• Story ID: 395204
• Location: DARWIN, NT, AU