Low Risk Of Infection In Port Of Rotterdam – Public Health Service
Multiple cases of infection with the coronavirus – also referred to as the COVID-19 virus – have currently been reported in Europe. Nevertheless, according to the public health service for the Rijnmond region (GGD Rotterdam-Rijnmond) there are no cases of infection with the virus in the Netherlands and the risk of contracting the disease is very low – particularly in the port area.
The service does not advise taking any new measures apart from observing regular hygiene regulations. GGD Rotterdam-Rijnmond bases its recommendations on the advice issued by the National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM). We will notify you via this webpage should there be any changes to the situation.
As Port Health Authority, the Harbour Master’s Division is responsible for forwarding any reports submitted by ships regarding the presence, or suspected presence, of an infectious disease on board the vessel to the GGD.
The Division is in close contact with GGD Rotterdam-Rijnmond and other responsible authorities regarding possible measures to control the spread of the coronavirus.
Impact of Coronavirus threat on freight transport via shipping
The World Health Organisation WHO classifies the spread of the COVID-19 virus as a pandemic. This pandemic has led to global disruptions in the production and logistics chains.
Worldwide, companies, national and international authorities are taking measures to mitigate as much as possible the impact of the epidemic on public health and the economy.
The Port of Rotterdam is an international hub of freight flows. The consequences of the virus outbreak are therefore also noticeable in the Port of Rotterdam.
In the first months of 2020, the realised throughput volumes for all freight flows were significantly lower than the original forecasts. The Port of Rotterdam Authority therefore considers it realistic that the throughput volume for the whole of 2020 will be clearly lower than that of the past two years.
Reference: portofrotterdam.com
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