Family member of SCS tests positive for COVID-19

     A spokesman for the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) said today (February 24) that the wife of the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Patrick Nip, tested positive for COVID-19. Mr Nip tested negative after a COVID-19 rapid antigen test this morning, and his subsequent deep throat saliva specimen submitted for testing also showed a negative result. The other family members also tested negative after COVID-19 rapid antigen tests.
 
     Mrs Nip underwent a COVID-19 rapid antigen test this morning and tested preliminarily positive. She submitted a deep throat saliva specimen for testing and the result was positive. She is now at home pending admission to hospital or isolation facility in accordance with the guidelines of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH).
 
     Mr Nip and other family members were identified as close contacts after the assessment conducted by the CHP of the DH. He and his family members will undergo home quarantine for 14 days and medical surveillance in accordance with the "StayHomeSafe" Scheme, including conducting tests on specified days within the period. Mr Nip will work from home during the quarantine period.
 
     The CSB has conducted thorough cleaning and disinfection at the relevant offices, and has arranged for relevant staff members to undergo testing.
 
     The CSB will continue to implement disease prevention measures vigorously, and has reminded all staff members to pay attention to personal hygiene and stay vigilant at all times. They should seek medical advice and inform the CSB if feeling unwell.