Royal Navy personnel from HMS Westminster receiving medical attention after testing positive for Covid-19

The Royal Navy confirmed ‘a number’ of crew from HMS Westminster, a Type 23 frigate, have tested positive.

A source close to the crew told The News sailors had been recalled to the vessel after self-isolating at home for two weeks prior to deployment.

Then while back onboard some sailors developed symptoms and have subsequently been tested and diagnosed.

Now, the Royal Navy has said those affected are getting medical attention ashore – but has not said how many people tested positive.

A navy spokeswoman said: ‘We can confirm that a number of personnel from HMS Westminster have tested positive for Covid-19.

‘Those individuals are ashore and are under medical supervision.

‘The remaining crew are following appropriate guidelines while the Royal Navy continues to manage the situation.

‘All necessary guidelines were followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of individual sailors and the whole crew, it is wrong to suggest otherwise.’

HMS Westminster is preparing to set sail soon for her next tasking, the details of which are currently unknown.

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Outbreaks of Covid-19 on board ships is being managed on a case-by-case basis based on operational tasking, personnel and infrastructure, according to the navy.

A number of Royal Navy vessels have been hit by Covid-19 this year.

Aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth had around 100 sailors self-isolating in September.

Later that month, HMS Westminster’s sister ship, HMS Richmond, also suffered an outbreak of coronavirus, forcing the warship to return to HMNB Devonport in Plymouth.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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