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.)
In response to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, this Guidance has been produced by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) to support all types of ships which operate in international waters. The purpose is to help shipping companies follow advice provided by United Nations agencies including the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), as well as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
The International Group has today launched a new publicly accessible online digital tool to assist shipowners, charterers, operators and other parties in the maritime sector track country and port specific advice around the world, detailing the measures being put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These are uncertain times as the COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for the industry and society at large.
Members are advised that there will be temporary restrictions in place in the vicinity of Sentosa Island during the planned summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
