TSA screener at Atlanta's airport dies after COVID-19 diagnosis

ATLANTA - A Transportation Security Administration screening officer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has died from complications of the coronavirus.

Dian Phipps

Dian Phipps died from complications of the COVID-19 virus on Monday, according to the TSA.

“For over 14 years Dian dedicated his career to protecting the traveling public, and his contributions to TSA and our mission will not be forgotten,” the TSA wrote in a statement.

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Phips joined the TSA in 2006 and started working checkpoint screening at Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

“His co-workers over the years remember him as a kind and humble person who was always fun to be around, as well as being a talented singer,” the TSA wrote in a statement. “We offer our heartfelt condolences to Dian’s family, friends and his TSA colleagues.”

Phipps worked as a checkpoint officer at Juneau International Airport in Alaska before being transferred to Atlanta.

“TSA remains committed and determined to work ever more closely with interagency partners to stop the spread of COVID-19,” the TSA wrote in a statement.

TSA said in the past two weeks, an additional 41 screeners and 5 other employees have tested positive for the coronavirus, bringing the total number to 394. The TSA said 41 of those employees have recovered.

Phipps in the third death of a TSA employee.

No word on services.

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Best prevention measures:

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds.

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

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