Medical check ups for detection of Coronavirus has been intensified on all domestic and foreign ships arriving at major seaports of the country with imported goods from various countries. Since, February-1, a total of 9,985 sailors have been screened at Chittagong port only, sources informed.
It is learnt, an emergency meeting was held with port users, law enforcement agency officials and senior officials from local administration at Chittagong Circuit House chaired by the Divisional Commissioner of Chittagong recently. Chittagong Divisional Director (Health) Dr Hasan Shahriar Kabir directed all port health officials to confirm the inspection and check up of health of all sailors on the ships.
He also directed all concerns to intensify regular inspection and testing of all vessels arriving at Chittagong Seaport and on the out going vessels to prevent transmission of Corona virus (Covid-19).
CPA Health Officer Dr Motahar Hossain in this connection said, the medical teams were inspecting the vessels arriving from overseas as a pre-requisite from the port authorities. The vessels anchored on the jetty and the outgoing ones are also screened and the sailors are being tested of any symptoms of fever, cold and cough. So far, screening of 9,985 sailors have been performed. According to sources, medical team is using the ship's local agent's speed boat to get around.
Though the port has its own ambulance boat, tag boats, pilot boats and its own hospital, the Medical team at the port needed to play more active role and be equipped with required instruments and logistic support to prevent corona virus spread, it also needs an increased manpower, informed sources said.
Dr Motahar further informed, Member (Administration) of CPA Zafar Alam would provide necessary logistic support to facilitate activities of the Medical Team. Besides, Chittagong Divisional Health Director is providing necessary doctors and manpower to intensify regular inspection of all vessels at Chittagong Port to prevent transmission of Corona virus (Covid-19).
