2022/05/14
Army Command issues a press release following media reports that "large-scale infection was found at the Joint Operations Training Base (JOTB) in Pingtung, and 27 officers and soldiers were immediately quarantined"
Army Press release of the 6th Army Command
16:30, May 14, 2022
The 6th Army Command said today (14th) that several members of the 542 Brigade who accessed the JOTB in Pingtung were confirmed positive cases recently. Having considered the limited space for isolating and for taking care of the health of these servicemen, the unit has notified and coordinated with the Health Bureau of the Pingtung County Government and dispatched special anti-epidemic vehicles to transport the officers and soldiers to their original stations. All subsequent measures will be conducted based on the epidemic prevention regulations. Personnel in isolation will be provided with sufficient medical care based on their needs and wellbeing.
As pointed out by the 6th Army Command, the 542 Brigade has already formulated a complete epidemic prevention risk plan before servicemen were sent to the training. As soon as an officer or soldier presents with symptoms and tests positive, the unit will immediately transfer them to the nearest hospital for PCR testing. If found as a confirmed case, they will not only be reported to the local health authority, but measures will also be followed based on the guidelines of central government, the Ministry of National Defense (MND), and local health authority in relation to isolation and designating close contacts. Emergency response measures, such as disinfecting the camp, are then carried out to prevent further spread of the virus.
The 6th Army stated that related training, drills, and exercises of troops are carried out normally following testing and inspection. After the officers and soldiers who tested positive have recovered, they will, depending on the situation, return to the base to resume training.
The 6th Army stressed that epidemic prevention is a battle, and Command has already planned exhaustively to ensure the implementation of combat readiness tasks. Officers and soldiers are also advised to adhere diligently to personal hygiene and protection, especially during vacations. They should also avoid crowded public places, ensure they wear masks, and always their wash and sanitize their hands so they remain safe and healthy to carry out their duties and training.
Spokesperson of the 6th Army
Major General Shi Shun-wen 0965-295868