B.D.F. Steps Up COVID-19 Prevention and Control Measures

The Belize Defense Force says that its five COVID-19 positive members are progressing well.  According to Brigadier General Steven Ortega, it remains unclear where the first soldier, who tested positive, contracted the virus. They have ruled out, however, the possibility that they were exposed while on duty.  As a result, B.D.F. Commander Ortega says that they have adjusted the COVID-19 protocols on all their camps.

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega, Commander, B.D.F.

“We have five soldiers; they are doing well and they are isolated at home.”

Hipolito Novelo

“Are these asymptomatic patients?”

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega

“Yes. They are asymptomatic with low to minimal symptoms.”

Hipolito Novelo

“Sir, have you been able to determine how the first patient got infected and the others?”

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega

“We are still trying to figure that out presently.”

Hipolito Novelo

“Is there any consideration that they may have gotten it whilst on duty?”

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega

“We have ruled that part out already because they are mostly administrators and so we have ruled that out about them acquiring it on the field.”

Hipolito Novelo

“How about the doctor there, Mr. Elijio? Is it that he got infected there dealing with these officers?”

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega

“Not likely because we are still trying to figure out where the first case came into camp.”

Hipolito Novelo

“Sir, has this caused change in protocols of COVID-19 measures?”

On the Phone: Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega

“Yes we have enhanced the measures we are using here on Price Barracks and all the camps now. Some of it includes restrictive access to the bases; improved sanitary meaning hand-washing ; sanitizing of the different locations and also in terms of our personnel we have compartmentalize the work-force, basically.”