By Mike McCombs
Two Marines stationed at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island have tested positive for COVID-19 novel coronavirus, according to Capt. Bryan McDonnell, Communications Strategy and Operations Director for MCRD Parris Island.
According to an email from McDonnell, the Marines tested positive last week. Already in quarantine when they were notified, they remain in isolation at their residences, in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.
The Marines followed official guidance by reporting to a medical provider upon showing symptoms and were quickly screened and immediately isolated, McDonnell said.
Both Marines work in offices independent and separate from recruit training locations, McDonnell said, and there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among drill instructors or recruits at this time.
The command conducted a deliberate and thorough contact investigation in accordance with the precautionary measures outlined in service-level, Department of Defense and CDC guidance to protect the community. Personnel with whom the service members identified as being in close contact were quickly notified, and as directed by health professionals, are in self-quarantine and will receive follow-on medical assessment, McDonnell said.
All work spaces of involved personnel were also thoroughly decontaminated.
McDonnell also said that, like the rest of the community, MCRD Parris Island has individuals pursuing tests and those who are in self-quarantine following travel.
