PRESS RELEASE

UPDATED: 10:21 PM

Long Beach, CA - The Carnival cruise ship passenger who was transported to a local hospital this morning has tested negative for COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) decided to hold the passengers on the ship docked at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal until the patient could be evaluated and tested for COVID-19.

           
The City of Long Beach remains vigilant in promoting and enhancing preparedness efforts in coordination with local, state and federal officials. At this time, there are zero confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the city of Long Beach.

We are working collaboratively to implement safety measures and to keep the public informed of preventive measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.

As a reminder, preventative measures that can be taken to stay healthy are:

• Wash your hands with soap and water often for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home if you are sick.

If a member of the community has symptoms such as coughing, fever or difficulty breathing, they should contact their primary healthcare provider. The community can also visit www.longbeach.gov/covid19 for local updates as they become available.

ORIGINAL STATEMENT AT 4:37 PM

This morning, a female passenger on a Carnival Cruise ship was transported to a local area hospital by the Long Beach Fire Department. The ship is currently docked at the Cruise Terminal located in the Port of Long Beach. A decision was made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to hold the passengers on the ship until the patient can be evaluated and tested for COVID-19. This test is in process and remains a top priority for all parties involved.

Our primary concern is for the safety of the residents, visitors and those who work in the City of Long Beach. The City continues to promote and enhance preparedness efforts in coordination with local, state and federal officials.

We are working collaboratively to implement safety measures and to keep the public informed of preventive measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Preventative measures that can be taken to stay healthy are:

• Wash your hands with soap and water often for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home if you are sick.

If a member of the community has symptoms such as coughing, fever or difficulty breathing, they should contact their primary healthcare provider. The community can also visit www.longbeach.gov/covid19 for local updates as they become available.