2022/06/15
Navy Fleet Command issues a press release in response to media reports stating "a serviceman diagnosed with low blood oxygen levels was evacuated urgently" (June 15, 2022)
In response to media reports that "a serviceman diagnosed with low blood oxygen levels was urgently evacuated", Naval Fleet Command stated today (15th) that a non-commissioned officer whose surname is Wu was feeling unwell and was tested via quick screening in the Dihua warship as it carried out its mission. Wu had low blood oxygen levels, which recovered to 98% after being treated by the vessel medical officer. The medical officer considered the safety of the serviceman and deemed it necessary to send him to hospital for treatment after the vessel returned to port. In addition, the vessel followed the regulations in restricting the use of mobile phones by servicemen to ensure the confidentiality of operations and tasks; this should not be misunderstood as an act of concealment of an epidemic breakout.
Naval Fleet Command emphasized that the vessel conducts rapid screening testing and personnel access control 72 hours before the execution of mission and voyage. Medical treatment is arranged for anyone who tests positive, they will be prohibited from continuing with the mission and must isolate on land. Those who test positive but have mild symptoms will be quarantined and treated in accordance with the regulations. Anyone with severe symptoms will return to port for medical treatment to ensure the health and safety of servicemen and combat readiness.
Naval Fleet Command further stated that Command has completed a risk management and control plan based on the epidemic prevention regulations of the Central Epidemic Command Center, Ministry of National Defense (MND), and local government to ensure the health and safety of all servicemen on board. Command shall continue to train servicemen on health and safety to maintain the combat power of troops and defend the security of sea borders.