InfoSearched
Published -
- March 28, 2020
- 11:45 am
A cruise ship called the Zaandam sits stranded at sea with at least two people on board testing positive for the coronavirus, and nearly 140 reporting flu-like symptoms.
Around the world, nearly 28,000 people have died from the coronavirus. Spain has the world’s second highest death toll behind Italy with nearly 5,000 reported. Roxana Saberi explains how the virus is taking hold outside of the U.S.
What measures is Holland America Line taking to ensure the safe disembarkation of passengers and crew from the stranded Zaandam cruise ship?
The Zaandam cruise ship of the Holland America Line has been stranded at sea with two cases of coronavirus. This has created a chaotic situation and left hundreds of passengers and crew members concerned about their well-being.
The ship had set sail from Buenos Aires on March 7, 2020, and was scheduled to end its voyage at San Antonio, Chile, on March 21. However, the cruise was abruptly cut short after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ship, carrying over 1,800 passengers and crew, was denied entry into ports in South America, including Chile and Peru due to health concerns.
To add to the distress, four passengers have died on board, with two of them having tested positive for COVID-19, and over 200 passengers and crew members have fallen ill experiencing flu-like symptoms. The situation has been described as dire, with medical facilities on the ship stretched to their limits.
The ship’s operator, Holland America Line, is working with different authorities to find a solution that will allow the passengers and crew to disembark safely. All options are being considered, including medical evacuations for the sick and older passengers. The passengers are expected to be taken to an undisclosed location after they disembark from the ill-fated ship.
The stranded Zaandam cruise ship highlights the significant public health and safety risks that associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus continues to spread across borders and oceans, leaving countless individuals stranded, with nowhere to turn.
The outbreak has affected countless industries, including the travel and tourism sector. Governments worldwide have implemented travel restrictions and regulations and now, the sector is reeling from the cancellations and disruption caused by the pandemic.
In conclusion, the Zaandam cruise ship’s plight is a reminder of the health and safety risks posed by COVID-19. Humbled by this experience, the global community must continue to work together and prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens. The most effective way of countering the pandemic remains in adhering to social distancing measures, limiting travel, and practicing good hygiene protocols.
