The first locally transmitted case of the Zika virus was detected in Singapore last month, resulting in some ports requiring ships arriving from this area to provide evidence of their mosquito eradication measures.

As of the 1st September 2016, all shipments originating from Singapore and travelling to China MUST obtain a mosquito eradication certificate (MEC) before point of call.

This follows the Chinese authorities decision to require the same certification from shipments originating from the US, a country listed by the WHO (World Health organization) as experiencing mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission, and where Zika was first identfied back in 2014.

Shipowners seeking advice on how to effectively eradicate mosquitos, or those requiring further information on the Zika situation in Singapore, should refer to the attached PDF from the MPA (Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.)