A member of the Japan Self-Defense Force unit that was dispatched to provide assistance to disaster-hit Tonga has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to Japan's Defense Ministry.

The infected individual has been placed in quarantine in Australia.

Australia also reported 23 cases among the crew of HMAS Adelaide, which departed Brisbane on Friday to deliver humanitarian aid to Tonga.

The Australian government was working with Tongan authorities to keep the boat at sea and make sure there is no threat to the Pacific nation.