COVID case in Katherine Watch House

Health Minister Natasha Fyles told media on Wednesday that the person, whose gender and age is unknown, was taken into custody by Katherine police last night before testing positive to the virus.

"My understanding [is]... somebody was taken into custody. At that point, they did a rapid test and they tested positive," she said.

Assistant Commissioner Bruce Porter said the individual was then put into isolation.

"All people who are taken into custody are asked a number of screening questions and then if required will then proceed to undertake and Rapid Antigen Test," he said.

"All persons in custody who are suspected or confirmed as COVID-positive are isolated, and all members who interact with that person are required to wear full PPE, and undertake disinfection protocols."

Read more: Call for military help on NT outbreaks

Assistant Commissioner Porter said measures are taken to prevent COVID outbreaks in "high-risk" settings like Watch Houses.

"NT Police have a set of robust Standard Operating Procedures in relation to COVID-19 management, including care of people in custody, care for our members, the requirement to use personal protective equipment (PPE), and appropriate disinfection of facilities and resources."

The Katherine Times has removed the paywall from our stories relating to health warnings and safety of the community in regards to the coronavirus. However, we depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.