Press Releases

Local COVID-19 Case Has Ties To Ellsworth

  • Published
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Base officials announced that Ellsworth AFB has a connection to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) case in Rapid City, South Dakota, confirmed by Monument Health officials earlier today.

Two spouses of active-duty Airmen have been in contact with the person who has tested postivie for COVID-19. The spouses live off base and are currently in quarantine, as well as the active-duty members.

"To be clear, Ellsworth currently does not have any confirmed cases," said Col. David Doss, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "We are actively monitoring the situation, working closely with our neighbors and community partners, and are committed to keeping the Ellsworth community healthy and informed."

Ellsworth is currently in Health Protection Condition (HPCON) Bravo. The HPCON B declaration defines base measures taken in response to a moderate disease threat to base personnel that has the potential to rapidly move into an area. These measures include educating personnel on the threats, taking precautionary measures, and reviewing plans to limit communication of COVID-19

Good hygiene practices are the best preventive measure to control the spread of viruses, to include COVID-19. Things like washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding contact with those who have been sick, staying away from others and seeking medical care when you feel ill, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.

For the latest information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of Defense Coronavirus websites at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/.