Why did five countries refuse to let the Westerdam cruise ship dock?

Question

Accepted Answer

Five Nations Denied MS Westerdam Docking Due to Coronavirus Fears

The MS Westerdam cruise ship was refused permission to dock by five countries—Japan, Taiwan, Guam, the Philippines, and Thailand—primarily due to concerns over the potential presence of the coronavirus among its passengers and crew. These nations' decisions were influenced by the prevailing anxiety surrounding the novel virus, which had already caused over 1,300 fatalities, predominantly in China. The situation was further heightened by the ongoing quarantine of the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan, where a significant number of positive cases, 175 out of 3,700 individuals, had been identified.
Widespread Rejections Amidst Health Concerns

Despite no reported cases of illness on board the MS Westerdam, the ship faced a series of rejections from multiple countries. This widespread refusal stemmed from a general fear of the new flu-like virus, a concern amplified by the escalating death toll and the ongoing health crisis in China. The ship operator, Holland America, a unit of Carnival Corp, confirmed that passengers had undergone regular health checks throughout this period of uncertainty.
The Shadow of the Diamond Princess Quarantine

A significant factor contributing to the refusal by these countries was the precedent set by the quarantine of the Diamond Princess. This other Carnival Corp-managed vessel had become a major hotspot for the virus, with a substantial proportion of its occupants testing positive. The situation aboard the Diamond Princess underscored the potential risks associated with cruise ships and likely heightened the vigilance of health authorities in neighbouring nations.
A Shift in Destination and Disembarkation Plans

After being denied entry in Bangkok, Thailand, and subsequently escorted out of the Gulf of Thailand, the MS Westerdam altered its course towards Cambodia. Upon arrival at an anchoring point in Sihanoukville, Cambodian authorities planned to conduct health checks. The ship's operator indicated that most passengers would subsequently be able to disembark and travel home via chartered flights arranged from Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did five countries refuse to let the Westerdam cruise ship dock?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends