Face of Nation International : The company’s medical officer Russell Brown yesterday told staff that, in addition to previously announced cases of baggage handlers, the airlines’ numbers included eight pilots and 19 cabin crew. “Most of those were from overseas, but they were taking the precautions,” Dr Brown said via a webinar.
“They are wearing masks when flying and being careful, and we’re still seeing these cases. “When you’re dealing with a community that has more spread, the risk goes up, and we have to start thinking about what’s going on here.”
It is understood the cases have been distributed throughout the entire Qantas Group — which also includes Jetstar. In a statement, Qantas medical director Ian Hosegood said there was no evidence passengers had caught the virus from infected staff — but could not rule that out.
“There’s been no confirmed cases of transmission of the coronavirus to employees or customers on board our Aircraft, or any Aircraft globally for that matter. Whilst this transmission is possible, current evidence suggests it’s unlikely.”
“We have put in place increased measures to protect our people while they are at work and our customers including enhanced cleaning at airports and on aircraft and providing necessary safety equipment.” All of the infected staff members are undertaking 14 days’ quarantine. (Source: ABC News – Australia)
