A Senior Immigration Officer tested positive for COVID-19

     This morning (July 24), the Immigration Department (ImmD) learned that a male Senior Immigration Officer stationed in the Certificate of Entitlement Section was notified of having tested positive for COVID-19.

     The officer concerned is mainly responsible for providing support services at the ninth floor of Immigration Tower in Wan Chai. His office is not open to the public. He last performed duties on July 22. His wife was confirmed as having COVID-19 in the evening of July 22. He was admitted to hospital on July 23 and was subsequently notified of the positive result early this morning (July 24). His workplace has been thoroughly cleaned and fully sterilised, including all public facilities. His office has been temporarily closed.

     The officer concerned has no recent travel history. His body temperature was normal before commencing duty and he followed the relevant disease prevention measures at work. Currently, the Centre for Protection (CHP) is trying to find out the cause of his infection and whether he has been in close contact with any other people.

     During the situation of COVID-19 infection, the department has been strictly implementing various disease prevention measures, including measuring the body temperature of and providing alcohol-based handrub to all persons before their entry into the building, providing employees with masks and other protective equipment, requiring employees to wear masks when performing duties, and stepping up the cleaning and sterilising measures for the working environment. In view of the latest situation of COVID-19 infection, the ImmD has recently carried out thorough cleansing and sterilisation at Immigration Tower.

     The department will continue to maintain close liaison with the CHP and has also reminded its staff to pay attention to personal hygiene and stay vigilant. Staff have been reminded to seek medical advice and inform the department as soon as possible if feeling unwell.