SYDNEY (AUSTRALIA) – The Australian government has deployed defence personnel to Port Hedland to stem the spread of the pandemic on a cargo vessel that changed crews in Manila.
Of the 21-member crew, 17 have tested positive for the virus, said owner of the vessel Oldendorff Carriers in a statement.
Ten of the infected crew are quarantined in a hotel while seven are still on board, authorities said.
Oldendorff said that the change of crew at Manila took place by adhering to all protocol.
“All crew members tested negative for the virus before leaving the Philippines,” Oldendorff said.
The vessel, which is slated to load manganese ore used in steel production, is anchored off Port Hedland located on the northwest coast.
The Western Australia state has stemmed the spread of the virus by closing its domestic and international frontiers. It has also taken the decision to bar the arrival of ships. But it allows export carriers and a limited international air arrivals. Those arriving from overseas have to undergo a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine.
Ten Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel will be deployed to Port Hedland following a request from the state authorities.