COVID-19 Shuts Down Chicago Firefighters Academy

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A COVID-19 outbreak has temporarily shut down the Chicago Fire Department's Quinn Fire Academy.

At least 20 recruits and two instructors have tested positive for the virus, a department source told WBBM-TV. As many as 24 people could be infected, although the department would not confirm how many recruits and instructors were affected.

The department will now work to "thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire facility," spokesman Larry Langford said in a statement. Vehicles, gear and work areas also will be disinfected.

"The current class of recruits will continue their training through remote learning," Langford said. "All individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 will remain in isolation while any close contacts will quarantine. No individuals who have tested positive have required hospitalization, and we will continue to monitor their condition."

No timeline was given on when the academy might reopen.