Global shipping, logistics and marine services provider GAC Group is calling for shipping and logistics companies to invest in staff and crew education on how to reduce the risk of exposure to Ebola, and to keep up-to-date with precautionary measures being put in place around the world to contain the spread of the virus and minimise its impact on global transport.
The Ebola epidemic has affected multiple countries in West Africa, with most cases being reported in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone. While some isolated cases had been reported in Nigeria, the country has now been officially declared Ebola-free, and has been praised for its handling of the potential outbreak.
However, GAC management and staff in the region are constantly vigilant to the dangers of possible contagion through transportation and trade links with countries still affected.
Michael Sturesson, General Manager of GAC Angola, says the best way for the shipping and logistics sector to reduce exposure is through internal communications and educating employees: “Angola is Ebola-free, but we recognised that cases elsewhere in West Africa meant our staff needed to be made aware as early as possible of how best to protect themselves. That way, even if the virus did reach our country, we would be well prepared and able to continue carrying out our duties and supporting our customers.”
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