MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands: MPC access limited to essential travel because of Covid-19 positive case

MPC is closing its facilities and access to the airport will be limited. People are strongly advised only to travel to and from MPC if it is absolutely essential

The Falkland Islands Government confirmed on Thursday that a military medic involved in quarantine surveillance swabbing has tested positive for Covid-19 as a result of displaying symptoms.

This person is now self-isolating and all of their level one close contacts have been identified and are isolated. These contacts are now being tested and, so far, none have tested positive.

As a precaution, the Mount Pleasant Complex is closing its facilities and access to the base will be limited. People are strongly advised only to travel to and from MPC if it is absolutely essential and should decide on Thursday night where they will base themselves for the next few days. This may involve individuals speaking to their employers to see if they need to travel.

MLA Leona Roberts said: “This new case was very swiftly identified and please be assured that all of the necessary steps are being taken to ensure that the situation is contained. I would ask anyone who does need to travel to MPC to follow the guidance on good public health hygiene.”

Access to MPC will be reviewed on Sunday at noon to allow time for the remaining contact tracing to be complete, and following this an update will be provided to the public. In the meantime, the airbridge will continue to operate as usual for both northbound and southbound flights, and passengers are still able to fly.

More information about COVID-19 and steps people can take to keep themselves safe is available by visiting the government website: www.fig.gov.fk/covid-19