A few sailors aboard the U.S. Navy’s USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) Freedom variant littoral combat ship have tested positive for COVID-19.
The service announced today that the ship remains in port as a result of a portion of the crew testing positive for the virus. The crew is 100% immunized and all COVID-19 positive sailors were isolated onboard and away from crew members. A portion of those infected have exhibited mild symptoms. The vaccine continues to demonstrate effectiveness against serious illness.
The specific COVID variant has yet to be determined and all CDC guidelines are being followed to include contact tracing and testing protocols.
The ship is following an aggressive mitigation strategy in accordance with Navy and CDC guidelines.
The Milwaukee departed on December 14 for its regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations. The ship is currently in port Naval Station Guantanamo Bay for a scheduled port visit.