A member of Secretary of Defense Mark Esper’s team traveling in the Indo-Pacific region has tested positive for Covid-19, three US officials told CNN. The delegation members learned of the positive result as they arrived in Guam on Friday, the officials said.
It is not clear if the person had any direct contact with Esper. Under standard protocols the individual would be tested again. CNN has not learned any details of further testing.
The Pentagon did not respond immediately for CNN’s request for a comment.
It is not clear how the situation will impact Department of Defense travel plans for the secretary’s return to the US, the officials say.
Esper embarked on a trip on Aug. 25 to Hawaii, Palau and is currently in Guam.
Esper posted a video on Twitter Friday showing him laying a wreath in the waters of Palau for fallen service members in World War II. The secretary also posted a photo Thursday night of him meeting with sailors aboard the USS Essex. Esper was wearing a mask in these photos and video.