Authorities in West Australia have started a deep clean of the coronavirus-infected livestock carrier ‘Al Messilah’, which brought 25 positive cases in Fremantle port, earlier this week. Meanwhile, a total of 18 crew members onboard the Key Integrity bulk carrier have tested negative.
Western Australia has reported COVID-19 cases onboard another two vessels that are currently docked at Fremantle Port. What is more, New Zealand also finds itself dealing with cases of the virus onboard ships arriving in its ports.
Australian authorities informed that the Mitsui O.S.K. Lines bulk carrier Vega Dream has been permitted to sail from its anchorage off Port Hedland despite crew members being in isolation aboard the vessel after testing positive for COVID-19.
Another eight crew members from a bulk carrier anchored off Western Australia tested positive for COVID-19, increasingthe total number of cases from the ship to 17.
The COVID-19 pandemic is already challenging the seafarers and passengers who are left onboard cruise ships in Australian waters, after the country decided to ban all foreign cruise vessels as soon as possible. In mid-march, Australia along with New Zealand announced the ban of cruise ships arrivals at their foreign ports to avoid the spread of the disease, beginning for 30 days.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan urged the cruise ship “Artania”, which is docked in Fremantle, to leave the port amid fears that more potential coronavirus cases may harm the state’s health system.
Oil and gas producer Santos Ltd announced it will cut its full-year spending and defer an investment decision on Barossa as oil prices plunge and the coronavirus outbreak dents business sentiment.
A total of 26 people onboard the cruise ship Ruby Princess have tested positive for COVID-19, a Sunday update by NSW Health reads. In this regard, NSW Health authorities introduced an increased testing regime for cruise ships at the ports.
The Australian Prime Minister announced the implementation of improved restrictions by midnight of March 15, for those entering from any overseas destination.
Following the COVID-19 outbreak, Australia and New Zealand decided to ban cruise ships arrivals at their foreign ports to avoid the spread of the disease.
