Coronavirus

Soldier’s positive test is 4th coronavirus case related to Fort Benning

A Fort Benning soldier has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, officials said Thursday.

Martin Army Community Hospital received the positive test result from a Tricare network lab Thursday. Officials said the soldier has not traveled outside of the United States or had contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. It’s the fourth case associated with the military post.

The person has self-quarantined at an off-post home since March 17 and has followed all protective measures as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Benning officials said.

Martin Army notified the soldier’s unit and is working to determine if hospital staff members may have been affected. The Georgia Department of Public Health is working with hospital officials to locate others who may have had contact with the sick solider.

They will be advised to remain in their homes as recommended by the CDC, officials said.

As of noon March 26, Muscogee County reported 5 cases of COVID-19. This case will count towards the county’s total. The state Department of Public Health reports a total of 1,525 COVID-19 cases and 48 deaths in Georgia.

Nick Wooten
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer
Nick Wooten is the Accountability/Investigative reporter for the Ledger-Enquirer where he is responsible for covering several topics, including Georgia politics. His work may also appear in the Macon Telegraph. Nick was given the Georgia Press Association’s 2021 Emerging Journalist award for his coverage of elections, COVID-19 and Columbus’ LGBTQ+ community. Before joining McClatchy, he worked for The (Shreveport La.) Times covering city government and investigations. He is a graduate of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.
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