MSC Cruises has taken precautionary measures regarding the health of its passengers and crew following a confirmed Ebola case in Kenya. In response, the cruise line has temporarily halted the embarkation and hiring of Kenyan crew members across its fleet. This decision was prompted by reports from Nairobi, where a Kenyan national, who had traveled from the Democratic Republic of Congo, fell ill and later died. Local health authorities have isolated individuals who had contact with the infected person, and there have been no reports of further transmission.
The suspension of crew movement from Kenya is set to last until October 31, allowing MSC Cruises time to monitor the situation and ensure no additional cases arise. Despite the serious nature of Ebola, which has a high mortality rate but is not airborne, the cruise line is exercising caution. The company is known for its rapid growth and employs a significant number of Kenyans at sea, making this decision impactful for many.
While some may view the freeze on hiring as excessive, the enclosed environments of cruise ships necessitate stringent health protocols to prevent outbreaks. The decision aligns with standard health monitoring practices, as the incubation period for Ebola can extend up to 21 days. The hope is that after this period, Kenyan crew members can safely return to the MSC fleet.
