News: COVID-19 detection measures are expected to tighten in Greek ports

The WHO situation report dated 26/02/2020 notes that for the first time since the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, the number of reported new cases is higher in countries outside of China than in China.

Within the last few days more than 520 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Italy, and neighbouring countries are also now affected. A woman who has recently travelled to Milan, Italy was also diagnosed with COVID-19 in Northern Greece yesterday.

As far as the situation in Greek ports is concerned, Kalimbassieris Maritime in Greece advised that at the port of Thisvi, near the Corinth bay in Central Greece, the Port Authorities urge the shore personnel who have direct contact with the ship’s crew to use facemasks, glasses and sterile gloves. If such protective equipment is not being used, the shore personnel will not be allowed entrance to the port. Our correspondents expect that similar measures will be taken by other Greek Port Authorities as well.

With regard to the ports which are located at the Western part of Greece i.e. Patras and Igoumenitsa, where the transfer of goods and passenger from Italian ports is conducted, the National Public Health Organisation (EHEA) has initiated targeted actions to raise awareness. Posters and leaflets are distributed at the ports to inform third country visitors about measures they should take in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Kalimbassieris Maritme advised that to date the preventive measures taken by the Patras and Igoumenitsa Port Authorities are the same for all ships irrespectively of whether they sailed from any Italian ports. Yet the situation is very dynamic and could change rapidly.

Given the serious nature of this emergency, we strongly recommend members to consult their local agents and club correspondents prior to calling any Greek ports for the latest developments.

类别: COVID-19, Loss Prevention