Results of PCR tests for Disney Cruise Line employees still outstanding 

The 25 crewmembers from the Disney Cruise Line who arrived in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) yesterday have been swabbed for PCR COVID-19 testing, in addition to rapid tests,  in an effort to further minimize the risk of importation of new COVID-19 cases in SVG.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) in a release issued today, May 21 said all of the nationals disembarked and “were subjected to screening for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus which causes COVID-19) exposure, utilizing rapid tests. The screening was conducted by the Port Health team.

“After being briefed by Port Health officials on the process, the crew members awaited the results of these initial tests in coaches stationed on the cruise ship wharf.

“Rapid testing did not identify any crew member with antibodies to COVID-19, and the crew members were subsequently transported to the appropriate quarantine facility to begin their 14-day quarantine.”

Additionally, according to the release, “in keeping with the revised protocol for the repatriation of crew members, swabs for PCR COVID-19 testing were also taken prior to disembarkation.

“This is aimed at further minimizing the risk of importation of new COVID-19 cases into St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The results for these PCR tests are still outstanding. Based on these additional test results and the compliance of the crew members to the court ordered quarantine, a determination will be made on whether further testing will be required and on where the Disney crew members will complete their 14-day quarantine,” the release said.