No travel or trade ban necessary to deal with ebola threat, says IMO

The advice comes on the recommendations of the third meeting of the Emergency Committee, convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) director-general on Wednesday, 22 October.

“We would recommend to all our Member States as well as the broader maritime community, shipping companies, ship operators and port and terminal operators that they follow the recommendations of the WHO, which is that the movement of ships, including the handling of cargo and goods, to and from the affected areas, should continue as normal, in order to reduce the isolation and economic hardship of the affected countries,” said Andy Winbow, assistant secretary-general and director, Maritime Safety Division, IMO.

“Any necessary medical treatment should be available ashore for seafarers and passengers,” Winbow added.

The IMO infographic “What you need to know” can be downloaded and used on board ships and in ports and terminals as an educational aid.