The National Science Foundation (NSF) has suspended all travel to Antarctica for at least two weeks following a COVID-19 outbreak at a U.S.-operated research station.
“Following the confirmation of more than 70 positive cases at McMurdo Station, NSF is reviewing the existing protocols implemented at the start of the season in September to reduce the transmission rates,” the agency wrote.
“Based on the recommendations of our expert epidemiologist, management is moving to lower the density of the population to reduce the possibility of transmission. As plans are confirmed and due to the quickly changing situation, NSF will be posting updates.”
It noted that the pause doesn’t apply to essential travel needed for health and safety reasons.
As part of the agency’s effort to contain the outbreak, those arriving at the station will be required to spend five days in isolation before transiting to the South Pole or Deep Field. They must also present a negative COVID-19 test.
Those who have tested positive will be required to isolate for five days and then wear a mask for an additional five days. After presenting two negative tests, they'll be allowed to return to work.
“At the current rate of infection of 10 percent of the deployed population, our expert epidemiologist highly recommends KN-95 masks be worn at all times and NSF will ensure these are available to all residents at McMurdo,” the agency wrote.
As of Nov. 7, there were 993 residents at McMurdo Station, which is capable of supporting up to 1,258 residents.
The agency stated that since early October, 98 COVID-19 tests came back positive. Each person who tested positive was required to isolate in their room until they were able to return to work.
Symptoms reported among most residents at McMurdo have been mild, according to the NSF.
