On March 17, test results indicated that a Sailor assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Boxer is homeported in San Diego.

This is the second Boxer Sailor to test positive. The first occurred on March 13. There is no indication that the Sailors were in close contact aboard the ship. Also the Sailors work in two different departments. 

The Sailor is currently isolated at their home and restricted in movement in accordance with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines.

Boxer has developed an aggressive mitigation strategy to minimize spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of our force. The mitigation efforts include the following:
 

• Boxer has a medical station at the quarterdeck with Medical Department representatives, with necessary medical equipment, to review screening checklists with all personnel coming aboard the ship.
   
• Quarterdeck watchstanders are outfitted with nitrile gloves, there is no physical touching, and watchstanders are maintaining social distancing.
   
• Boxer is enforcing social distancing, and minimizing group gatherings.
   
• Ship personnel are conducting deep cleaning of ship with HTH (bleach) on a twice daily basis.
   
• Antiseptic wipes and hand sanitizer are located throughout the ship, particularly in workspaces near computers, mess decks, common areas, and tool issue.
   
• Duty section personnel and personnel who live aboard the ship are assigned to beds that maintain six feet of separation.
   
• The ship has secured self-serve on the mess decks, CPO Mess, and Wardroom.
   
• Ship's gyms are closed.

Boxer’s leadership, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and U.S. Pacific Fleet are committed to taking every measure possible to protect the health of our force.

The Navy is committed to taking every measure possible to protect the health of our force. We remain in close coordination with state and federal authorities, and public health authorities to ensure the well-being of our personnel and local population.

For questions, contact U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs at 808-471-3769.