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The Defense Department is continuing to ramp up its efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 within the ranks.
As of Monday, more than 2,500 service members have confirmed cases of the coronavirus, including more than 400 Guardsmen. Those numbers have grown quickly in recent weeks, with the military reporting more than 500 new cases over the weekend.
In response, the Pentagon has directed all personnel to wear a cloth face mask in public areas when it is not possible to maintain six feet of separation from other individuals. The masks are mandatory for troops while on a military installation and must be of a neutral color and have a fastening device such as ear loops or ties.
“Everyone must do their part to reduce the spread of the virus,” said Defense Secretary Mark Esper during a town hall meeting last week. “We see some light at the end of the tunnel but we’re far from being out of the woods.”
In addition to requiring face masks, the Pentagon has also released a series of best practices aimed at flattening the curve of infections. They include simple tasks like proper handwashing and disinfecting of workspaces, as well as covering sneezes and coughs and practicing social distancing – including teleworking – whenever possible.
The military is regularly updating guidelines on which service members will be screened for the virus. Currently, asymptomatic personnel are generally not tested, but those deemed essential personnel to current missions, those showing symptoms and those at a higher risk for poor outcomes are approved for testing at the discretion of their health care providers.
Despite the ongoing pandemic, DoD leaders are confident the force remains ready to face threats from potential adversaries.
“Our readiness is still very high, and no one should doubt the readiness of the U.S. military to respond and defend the American people if required,” said Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
