Coronavirus: Nasa will enact stricter protocols in time for returning astronauts

Nasa will enact stricter protocols in time for returning astronauts Andrew Morgan and Jessica Meir, amid the coronavirus pandemic.

CNN reports that the agency will closely adhere to CDC guidelines when the two astronauts come back to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS) on 17 April.

Communications specialist at Nasa’s Johnson Space Centre, Courtney Beasley told CNN that the checks are already rigorous but will ramp up in light of Covid-19.

“Nasa will closely adhere to the CDC’s recommendations on infection control for the coronavirus as Andrew Morgan and Jessica Meir return to Earth and begin their post-flight medical testing and re-adaptation period,” she said.

“This includes cleaning of surfaces, social distancing, emphasising hand hygiene, encouraging Nasa team members who are sick to stay home and limiting contact with the crew members.”

Nasa are gearing up for a launch to the ISS on 9 April and although the astronauts will be quarantined, Ms Beasley insists that this is standard for the agency prior to launch.

“All of our crew must stay in quarantine for two weeks before they launch. This ensures that they aren’t sick or incubating an illness when they get to the space station and is called health stabilisation,” she said.

On Tuesday, the agency published a press release from Nasa administrator Jim Bridenstine​, confirming staff will be working from home for the foreseeable future.

“Nasa’s early and thoughtful actions in coordination with our country’s unified response to this health emergency is an incredible display of national solidarity,” said Mr Bridenstine.

“Thank you for your vigilance and flexibility. I am confident your diligence and commitment will ensure our mission will continue. Please make certain you are giving the appropriate attention to your health and that of your family.”

According to a tracking project hosted by Johns Hopkins University, upwards of 14,000 people have tested positive in the US. The death toll has reached at least 210.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended a two-week ban on gatherings of more than 50 people as part of the battle to contain the spread of the contagion.

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