Destroyer USS Kidd enters next phase of Covid-19 relief response

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The US Navy has transferred nearly 90 confirmed healthy sailors from quarantine onto the guided-missile destroyer USS Kidd (DDG 100) as part of the next phase of its relief response to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

On arrival of the ship in Naval Base San Diego, healthy sailors were transferred onto the vessel to replace the existing onboard caretaker crew.

Prior to the transfer, the navy re-tested all of the crew members, helping officials decide which personnel should undergo transfer or isolation.

However, all crew members will be monitored for symptoms by military health professionals.

Naval Surface Forces Commander Vice Admiral Richard Brown said: “Our number one priority is to protect the health of our force and our families. By doing that, we also help to protect the health of our communities where we serve.

“Before we clear any sailor to return to the ship, they must receive two separate negative test results. We’re focussed on the health and safety of sailors, and ensuring the full recovery of Kidd’s crew.”

The USS Kidd received medical care for its sailors. It was cleaned and disinfected following a positive Covid-19 case.

Some sailors remained onboard to operate essential services, while anyone who tested positive was transferred from the ship to isolation or quarantine.

USS Kidd commanding officer Nathan Wemett said: “We must remain focussed and vigilant throughout the entire process to maintain our health and readiness in order to get back to sea.”

Disinfection work of the ship is expected to continue for about two more weeks.

Before the ship resumes its deployment, the US Navy will test all USS Kidd crew members again.