FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Fairchild Air Force Base is currently monitoring one positive case of COVID-19 for an active-duty Airman. Samples from the individual were sent to a DoD laboratory where the test was confirmed positive.
The individual is in isolation at their respective off-base residence, and the Spokane Regional Health District has been notified. On-base public health officials have begun the contact tracing process to notify those who may have come into contact with the positive individual.
Additionally, Col. Derek Salmi, the Installation Commander, has declared an on-base public health emergency on the recommendation of the Fairchild Public Health Emergency Officer.
“Our number one priority is protecting the health and safety of our Total Force Airmen and families,” said Salmi. “We are lock-step with the Spokane Regional Health District and other community partners to help mitigate the spread and effects of the coronavirus while providing updates as quickly as possible.”
This declaration provides the Fairchild AFB Installation Commander with additional authorities necessary to protect Airmen and families and limit the spread of the virus. This includes restricting movement of personnel and access to the installation as necessary and implementing quarantine or isolation procedures for affected individuals.
Fairchild has also raised their Health Protection Condition (HPCON) from Alpha to Bravo.
In HPCON Bravo, Fairchild AFB members and families are encouraged to practice prevention measures already in place, including following strict personal and environmental hygiene, social distancing, staying home if sick, self-quarantining if exposed, and contacting their healthcare provider if they develop any symptoms consistent with COVID-19, such as fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
For the latest information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus, and the Department of Defense Coronavirus website at www.defense.gove/explore/spotlight/coronavirus.