KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City’s first responders are also among those testing positive for COVID-19.
Kansas City, Missouri, Fire Department spokesperson and Assistant Chief Jimmy Walker confirmed Thursday that eight firefighters have tested positive for COVID-19.
An additional 95 firefighters are in various stages of quarantine, he said. That represents about 7% of KCFD’s 1,300 firefighters.
Walker said none of those firefighters are symptomatic, but rather are in quarantine as a precaution.
Despite the number of quarantined firefighters, Walker said the department has not had any staffing issues.
Based on contract traces, Walker said many of the firefighters likely were exposed to COVID-19 through patient contact. There is no evidence of community transmission at any KCFD fire stations.
KCFD Chief Donna Maize announced the first positive COVID-19 test for one of the department's firefighters on March 26.
Residents who call for an ambulance are asked to meet the crew outside the residence when possible to lower the risk of exposure during the ongoing pandemic.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
