Just as the world starts to return to post-pandemic normality Bangladesh has barred seafarers from shore leave at over monkeypox.
The Bangladesh authorities have introduced precautionary measures at the main Port of Chittagong to prevent the spread of monkeypox from sea routes.
Shipping agents GAC quoted an emergency circular from Chittagong Port Authority Marine Department that no crew would be granted shore leave unless it was an emergency and with prior approval of the Port Health Officer.
Ships are required to inform the port control room of any symptomatic monkeypox cases and the vessel’s movements and cargo operation may be subject to Port Health Officer inspection.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said at the weekend it assessed the overall global health risk from monkeypox as moderate.
On Monday, Intercargo warned that seafarers continued to face difficulties with shore leave and crew change in some countries due to COVID-19 regulations.
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