Benicia Firefighter Tests Positive For Coronavirus

BENICIA, CA— A firefighter for the city of Benicia Fire Department tested positive for the coronavirus and informed the city Wednesday.

The source of the infection has not yet been determined, but the Benicia Fire Department is working with the Solano County Public Health Department to attempt to determine the source, city officials said in a news release.

Benicia fire Chief Josh Chadwick said based on the firefighter's last shift on duty and the date symptoms started, staff with the Solano County Public Health Department have determined there was no exposure to city staff or the community.

"We are fortunate that during the period of infection, the firefighter was not present in the City of Benicia," Chadwick said. "The Benicia Fire Department is committed to preventing the spread of COVID-19 and ensuring the safety of the residents of Benicia."

The affected firefighter had no fever or symptoms during their last on-duty shift, and as of Wednesday, was in self-quarantine at home and has not required hospitalization, the city said.

Due to health privacy rights, the city said it was prohibited from providing any information about the identity of the affected firefighter.

All Benicia fire stations remain fully staffed and the city said it does not anticipate any disruption to service delivery.

"The Benicia Fire Department has standing operating guidelines and county protocols in place to limit or prevent the infection between patients and fire personnel," city officials said. "Fire personnel follow these guidelines and protocols during treatment and interaction with residents."