Outbreak investigation in cargo ship in times of COVID-19 crisis, Port of Santos, Brazil

ABSTRACT

In February 2020, a Chinese cargo ship docked at the Port of Santos with reports of crew members with a feverish and respiratory condition. A team was gathered to verify the existence of suspected cases of COVID-19 inside the vessel and define its clearance. All 25 crew members were interviewed, and no suspected cases were found. The vessel was then cleared for port activities. The investigation resulted from the implementation of the contingency plan to face a public health emergency of international importance and several surveillance entities cooperated. DESCRIPTORS Coronavirus Infections, epidemiology. Coronavirus Infections, prevention & control. Ships. International Health Regulations.