Please note the following notification from Transport Canada regarding the Coronavirus. We have been circulating these to all inbound vessels under our agency and will continue to do so until otherwise advised by the authorities.

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Muddle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

Common signs of infection with a coronavirus include fever and respiratory symptoms such as couch, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, kidney failure and even death. Current estimates of the incubation period of the virus range from 2-10 days, and these estimates will be refined as more data become available (WHO – January 27,2020).

To date there has been limited human transmission of this novel coronavirus. As with other infectious diseases, personal hygiene measures such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth and avoiding close contact with people who are symptomatic are important preventative measures.

Given the evolving status of this disease outbreak, please refer to the following link for up-to-date information:

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

Temporary Direction and Guidance

In order to contribute to the health and safety of those who work in and support the Canadian marine industry, and to reduce and/or eliminate the risk of spreading of the Coronavirus in Canada, the following is implemented on a temporary basis:

Foreign Flagged Vessels

• Foreign flagged ships are to pay particular attention to ensuring that all required components of the 96 and 24 Hour Pre-arrival Inspection Report (PAIR) are completed in accordance with section 221 of the Marine Transportation Security Regulations (MTSR);
• Vessel Masters with crew members and passengers symptomatic of the Coronavirus are to advise Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security following transmission of the 96 hour PAIR;
• In vessels with symptomatic crew members or passengers, Transport Canada Marine Security Inspectors will advise Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) Officials who will follow up directly with the vessel;
• Based on that information, PHAC will provide follow-on direction;
• In the event that PHAC determines that a crew member or passenger onboard a vessel to be at risk, Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security, in coordination with PHAC, will provide notification to others on a required basis (including but not limited to CCG, Pilotage Authorities, Port Authorities, TC Marine Safety, CBSA)

Domestic Vessels

• The above procedures do not apply to Canadian Registered Vessels;
• Domestic ships should report passengers and crew who are symptomatic of the Coronavirus to provincial and local health authorities; and
• If a case of Coronavirus is suspected, Masters of Canadian Vessels are to advise Transport Canada and supporting agencies (Pilots, Ports etc) prior to others boarding or coming into contact with passengers from the vessel.