​Hongkong Post said today (January 5) it was notified by Hong Kong Airport Services Ltd. (HAS) that a ground staff of it working at the Airport Mail Centre (AMC) was preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19, and is now receiving medical treatment at the hospital.

     The staff concerned is an employee of HAS, whose duty at the AMC is to assist airlines served by HAS on handing over of air containers with Hongkong Post. It does not involve any contact with the public and his working place is not open to the public either. The staff concerned is neither a staff member of Hongkong Post nor employed by Hongkong Post. He last performed duty on January 3. His body temperature was normal during temperature screening at work and he was wearing a mask while on duty. He is a close contact of a confirmed case and underwent COVID-19 testing yesterday (January 4). On the same day, he was notified by the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of his preliminary positive result at night.

     After learning about the case at around noon today, Hongkong Post immediately closed AMC until tomorrow (January 6) and will arrange for thorough cleaning and disinfection of all facilities and mail items in the centre pursuant to the guidelines set out by the CHP. Hongkong Post informed all the staff members working day and night shifts at AMC about the case and is rendering its full support to the CHP for its investigation and tracing effort. Besides, Hongkong Post will arrange all staff members of AMC to undergo COVID-19 testing. While awaiting the test results, the staff concerned will rest at home.

     Meanwhile, Hongkong Post has instantly activated its contingency plan by arranging for the processing of inbound and outbound mail at other mail centres so as to maintain its services.

     Hongkong Post has always attached great attention to the occupational health and safety of its staff by strictly implementing various infection prevention measures during the epidemic, including conducting body temperature screening for all staff members; providing them with protective gear such as face shields, protective goggles, masks, alcohol-based handrub, gloves and alcohol swabs; and requiring them to wear masks when performing duties and stepping up the cleaning of their working environment.

     Hongkong Post will continue to maintain close liaison with the CHP. Staff members are also reminded to take note of their personal hygiene and stay vigilant at all times, and they are also advised to seek medical advice immediately in case of feeling unwell.

Ends/Tuesday, January 5, 2021
Issued at HKT 19:48

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