Australia is providing medical assistance to Japan by sending a medical expert that could contribute to the efforts of Japan in handling the Diamond Princess cruise ship coronavirus issue. The cruise ship was quarantined off Yokohama, Japan.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said that the expert on infectious disease joined an international medical team to handle the passengers of the cruise ship, including 200 Australians.
He added that the medical expert boarded the cruise ship last morning. He highlighted that the Australian government will provide support to ensure that health and welfare are maintained.
Despite the reports regarding the US taking home their citizens, Prof Kelly maintained that it is the discretion of the expert to assess the situation and recommend feasible steps.
In response to the pandemic, the Australian government shut down travel from Mainland China. However, they admitted that it left a huge blow to Australian tourism.
According to Tourism Executive chairperson John Hart, the travel ban triggered a domino effect on other industries that depend on travel. He provided that the partial life on a travel ban from and to other parts of China that pose less threat to Australians could alleviate the impact.
Professor Kelly said that all of the possible options regarding travel restrictions have been considered but he does not want to put the Australians at risk.
The Maritime Unions of Australia expressed their concern over vessels coming from Mainland China. This urged the Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese to dialogue with the government and chief medical officer and has been assured that they do not neglect the situation.
On the other hand, no Australians who were quarantined in Christmas Island and Darwin were positive of the virus and will go back to the country immediately.
An ABF spokesman assured that the Australian government is completely aware of the issue.
Up to this date, 6 of the 15 cases in the country have been cleared and the remaining, stable. The virus infected more than 66,000 in China and with 1500 deaths. 1700 health workers are infected as well with 6 deaths.
