Bagger at Navy base store in Gulfport has coronavirus

Update from NCBC on Saturday, March 20:

“A bagger who works at the Naval Construction Battalion Center Commissary was confirmed positive for COVID-19 as of today.

“The bagger went on sick leave 13 March, but was experiencing symptoms on 12 March.

“Patrons who shopped in the commissary on 12 and 13 March who used bagging services are advised to self-monitor for symptoms for shortness of breath, severe coughing and fever.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, please call your physician immediately and isolate yourself away from others.

“Public Health Officials have determined that any shoppers that only had brief contact with the bagger are at low risk of having contracted COVID-19.

Analysis of the baggers contact history with commissary staff is underway now In order to determine the impact on commissary operations. We will update you as soon as that information becomes available.”

The patient is a civilian employee with the NCBC Naval Exchange, which is a retail facility offering a mini-mart, laundry and barbershop, among other services.

The employee tested positive on Tuesday, an NCBC press release said, and the Department of Defense notified the state health department.

“In consultation with the State of Mississippi Public Health and Navy public health officials it was deemed that a quarantine for additional personnel was not needed due to the lack of exposure to other NEX employees/associates or patrons,” the press release said.

This story was originally published March 18, 2020 at 2:00 PM.