What is the 56th Fighter Wing’s goal during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The 56th FW has a continuing mission to train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat ready Airmen. Executing this mission comes with obstacles we must overcome together to ensure the safety of the nation. Our goal has, and always will be, to provide a fully-trained fighting force to protect our nation’s interests. We remain committed to continuing efforts to mitigate the spread and effects of COVID-19.

Is it safe for the 56th FW to continue flying during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Yes.  Physical distancing measures and frequent cleaning of common work areas along with the use of face masks have shown to be effective at reducing the risk of infection in the workplace.  Similar preventive measures are being used throughout the Air Force to preserve our combat capabilities. 

When will we be able to get back to normal?

Although Luke AFB has not set a timeline to return to operations as they were prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, we have made tremendous strides in protecting our community during this pandemic. Now that vaccines are widely available, we encourage all eligible members of our community to get vaccinated so we can eliminate this threat and gradually wind down protection measures.

How can I prevent getting and spreading COVID 19?

Current recommendations to avoid being exposed to the COVID-19 virus include physical distancing, frequent hand-washing, covering your mouth and nose whenever you’re within six feet of others, practicing proper cough etiquette, cleaning and disinfecting frequently-touched areas, and seeking medical help if you develop any symptoms associated with COVID-19.  For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with any of these symptoms may have contracted COVID-19:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

This list does not include all possible symptoms. Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most current updates about COVID-19.  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/index.html

What does being on quarters and/or quarantine mean?

Asymptomatic individuals are directed to remain isolated from others for the duration of their quarantine dates, asked to monitor themselves for symptoms and contact Central Appointments at (623) 856-2273 if symptoms develop. Food and essential items can be supplied by unit leadership, friends, family, and squadron mates while maintaining physical distancing measures.

Symptomatic members are directed to remain isolated from others for the duration of their quarantine dates and asked to monitor themselves for worsening or improving symptoms. Food and essential items can be supplied by unit leadership, friends, family, squadron mates while maintaining physical distancing measures.

What are the member’s options for after-hours care and testing? 

The member’s best option is to call (623) 856-2273 and follow the nurse advice line option. They will direct the member to the nearest emergency room or urgent care. CAVEAT: Emergency room records are more easily captured by military medical records. Use of an urgent care will require the member to provide the location used to their primary care provider team.  However, we recommend all non-emergent testing be done at the 56th MDG during the work week in order to better track the results.

Where can I find out information about who is considered high-risk and additional COVID related questions?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website provides information and resources for COVID. Individuals can access the website at the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.

My co-worker had COVID-19 and just came back to work but he’s still coughing.  Is that OK?

Yes.  Research has shown that with mild or moderate cases of COVID-19 not requiring hospitalization, there are no cases of people being potentially infectious after 10 days of symptoms.  They may still have some coughing or fatigue, but they will not be infectious.

Can a respirator with an exhalation valve be used as source control?

Respirators with exhalation valves protect the wearer from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, but may not prevent the virus spreading from the wearer to others (that is, they may not be effective for source control). Until data are available to describe how effective respirators with exhalation valves are in preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 from the wearer to others:

- Wear a respirator without an exhalation valve when both source control and respiratory protection are required.

- If only a respirator with an exhalation valve is available and source control is needed, cover the exhalation valve with a surgical mask, procedure mask, or a cloth face covering that does not interfere with the respirator fit. ​