Hapag-Lloyd has confirmed positive COVID-19 cases on board two of its U.S.-flagged ships.
The German container shipping group said the cases were confirmed on the Philadelphia Express and St. Louis Express, both deployed on its Atlantic Loop 3 (AL3) service. One member on each vessel tested positive for COVID-19, the company said.
“We regret to inform you that during normal operations of our Philadelphia Express and St. Louis Express, deployed in our Atlantic Loop 3 (AL3) service one member of each vessel’s crew tested positive for COVID-19.
The mariners are quarantined and we are hoping for a speedy recovery. All other crew members on the vessel are being isolated, monitored and will be tested as well.
We are currently evaluating any potential impact on vessel and cargo operations and berthing dates for the subsequent ports of the rotation will be adjusted accordingly.
We will provide these details as soon as determined.
We regret the inconvenience caused by this incident which remains beyond our control and we are working with the relevant authorities on a timely resolution.
Please be assured that we continue to do our utmost to safeguard health and well-being of our seafarers during the pandemic.
Lastly, please join us in wishing the crew onboard all the best for the days to come and a fast recovery for the crew members affected.”
