Bus services have been suspended today after an employee in the Department of Public Transportation tested positive for the coronavirus.

A message from Roger Todd, the director of Public Transport, to staff which circulated on WhatsApp said: “I regret to inform you that one of our colleagues has tested positive for the Covid-19 virus.

“I am seeking guidance from the Epidemiology Surveillance Unit as it relates to the workplace.”

He added: “Under the circumstances and in an effort to minimise the risk to others, the public bus service will be suspended, effective Friday, 11 December.

“Please stand by for further updates.

“All employees that are able should work from home until further notice.”

A spokesman for the Ministry of Transport said: “The Department of Public Transportation wishes to advise the public that the public bus service will be suspended pending advice from the Ministry of Health.”

He confirmed that a staff member tested positive for the coronavirus.

The spokesman added: “The department is liaising with the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit for guidance.

“Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety of others, the decision has been made to suspend the public bus service until an assessment from the Ministry of Health is completed.

“Please note that the positive Covid-19 results were received by DPT management yesterday evening and the staff member who tested positive is not customer facing.

“The DPT apologises for the inconvenience, however, under the circumstances, it is the best decision at this time.”

He said that more information will be given “in due course”.