COVID-19: Air New Zealand crew isolating after testing positive in China

COVID-19: Air New Zealand crew isolating after testing positive in China
Photo credit: RNZ / Nate McKinnon

Air New Zealand is investigating after one of its crew members tested positive for COVID-19 in China.

The staff member tested negative to the virus in New Zealand on November 18 but returned a positive test on arrival in Shanghai on November 22.

Air New Zealand said the person was well and had no symptoms of COVID-19. All other crew have returned negative results.

The airline said the positive case would remain in isolation while Air New Zealand and the Ministry of Health worked with Chinese authorities to bring the person home.

"Operating crew on layover in China go into a managed isolation hotel as a standard procedure," an Air New Zealand spokesman said.

"The crew will remain in isolation while we work with Chinese authorities, New Zealand Ministry of Health and New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to make arrangements for their safe return home."

When they returned to New Zealand, the crew would follow the direction of the ministry around isolation and further testing, Air New Zealand said.

The Ministry of Health confirmed it was made aware of the staff member's possible case.

"In conjunction with the company, the Ministry will continue to investigate the circumstances of this possible case."

RNZ