Lexington firefighter tests positive for COVID-19; 8 other firefighters in quarantine
A Lexington firefighter has tested positive for novel coronavirus, Lexington city officials announced Friday.
Lexington Fire Chief Kristin Chilton said the Lexington firefighter did not contract the respiratory illness while on the job. The firefighter is self-isolating for 14 days. In addition, eight other members of the Lexington Fire Department who had close contact with the firefighter are in quarantine.
“These members are self-monitoring for any signs or symptoms of the virus,” Chilton said.
Despite the loss of nine firefighters for at least 14 days, Chilton said emergency services should not be affected.
“Our ability to respond to emergency incidents has not been impacted as a result of these personnel measures,” Chilton said.
The firefighter tested positive on Thursday, Chilton said.
A Louisville firefighter has also tested positive for novel coronavirus.
Kevin Hall, a spokesman with the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, said late Friday the total number of cases in the county have risen to 53 with one death.
This story was originally published March 27, 2020 at 3:18 PM.
