Marine Atlantic has confirmed that one of its frontline workers has tested positive for COVID-19.
As a result, the company has taken the vessel Blue Puttees out of service for deep cleaning, and about 125 crewmembers are being tested for the virus. About half of those workers are self-isolating aboard the vessel until their test results come back.
To facilitate the required testing, the MV Blue Puttees has been removed from service. Crew members will be tested and then isolate on the vessel until results are received. The vessel will also undergo an enhanced cleaning.
-Marine Atlantic
Marine Atlantic spokesman Darrell Mercer says the case involves a male frontline services worker but says the risk to others has been deemed low by health officials given the safety protocols in place aboard its ships.
Mercer noted it’s the first positive test involving Marine Atlantic since the pandemic began.
He says as a transportation provider they deal with any number of travellers every day, and despite best efforts, there was always the potential that the virus would affect operations.
Mercer also says an advisory will be issued by health officials urging anyone who travelled with Marine Atlantic between early- to mid-January to monitor their health and get tested if they develop symptoms.
The situation forced the cancellation of today’s lunchtime crossing from North Sydney to Port aux Basques as well as tonight’s run from Port aux Basques to North Sydney. The ferry Highlanders will remain in service with the Atlantic Vision on standby if needed.
