US Marine arriving in Darwin tests COVID-19 positive

A United States Marine returned a positive result for COVID-19 at an initial screening on arrival in Darwin this week.

FILE PHOTO (2 June 2020): US Marines of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin arrive at RAAF Base Darwin, NT, greeted by health-screening officials. Photo by Petty Officer Peter Thompson.

The individual was part of the third group of Marines who arrived on Wednesday 8 July to take part in this year’s Marine Rotational Force-Darwin (MRF-D).

The Marine is currently asymptomatic, but, in line with established processes and the agreed plans for MRF-D, the Marine will be taken to the Royal Darwin Hospital by Northern Territory Health patient transport for assessment.

Due to the strict procedures put in place before the arrival of the Marines, the Marine has had no direct contact with the general community.

All US personnel who arrived with the US Marine and may have interacted with the individual will continue to be monitored during their mandatory 14-day quarantine.

As per the established protocols, all US personnel will be tested again before leaving quarantine.

The Northern Territory government has been an integral part of the planning and response to this situation.

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