US Aircraft Carrier Docks In Guam As Coronavirus Cases On Board Rise

US aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt has docked in Guam as the number of coronavirus cases on board the vessel rise.

Earlier this week, three sailors were evacuated from the ship after testing positive for cororanvirus - however, at least 23 cases have since been identified.

All 5,000 personnel on board the aircraft carrier are now being tested for the virus.

Speaking on Thursday, US Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Mike Gilday, said the ship had arrived in Guam on a "previously-scheduled port visit".

He said the navy's facilities there will allow medics to "more effectively test, isolate and if necessary, treat sailors".

"We expect additional positive tests," Admiral Gilday said.

"Those sailors who test positive will be transported to the US Naval Hospital Guam for further evaluation and treatment as necessary. 

"We are taking this threat very seriously and are working quickly to identify and isolate positive cases while preventing further spread of the virus aboard the ship.

"No sailors have been hospitalized or are seriously ill.

"We're taking this day by day. Our top two priorities are taking care of our people and maintaining mission readiness."

Cover Image: USS Theodore Roosevelt pictured in the  Philippine Sea in February (Picture: US Department of Defense).