The International Institute of Marine Surveyors (IIMS) is concerned for the health and well-being of its members as well as any marine surveyor travelling locally and internationally for work.
Already there is evidence that the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is having a profound effect on some areas of the profession. But the picture is fluid, changing hourly and by the day, so you are advised to check the current status before you travel for work.
How Coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads
When someone who has COVID-19 coughs or exhales they release droplets of infected fluid. Most of these droplets fall on nearby surfaces and objects, such as desks, tables or telephones. It is possible to catch Coronavirus by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching the eyes, nose and/or mouth. If you are standing within one metre of a person with Coronavirus (COVID-19) it is possible to catch it by breathing in droplets coughed out or exhaled by them. In other words, Coronavirus spreads in a similar way to flu. Most persons infected with Coronavirus experience mild symptoms and recover in several days. However, some go on to experience more serious illness and may require hospital care. Risk of serious illness appears to rise with age – so far people over 40 seem to be more vulnerable than those under 40. People with weakened immune systems and people with conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease are also more vulnerable to serious illness.
Read the press release in full Coronavirus COVID-19 advice for travelling marine surveyors
