Cruise ship carrying more Covid-positive passengers docks in Sydney
A cruise ship docked in Sydney on Friday morning containing potentially hundreds of passengers infected with COVID-19. It was given a “tier two” virus status by NSW Health.
This means that “there are quite a few cases on board (30-99 positive cases per 1,000 people) and/or the vessel’s staffing or resources are impacted. However, it can safely maintain critical services.”
But in a statement, Celebrity Eclipse says there are only about 4 per cent of people on board with Covid.
“The individuals are fully vaccinated, mildly symptomatic or asymptomatic and being monitored by our medical team,” the statement read.
“Celebrity Eclipse is sailing with fully vaccinated crew and guests and following a robust protocols plan developed with guidance from local authorities and other leading public health experts. The safety of our guests, crew and the communities we visit is always our top priority.”
The cruise ship has recently returned from New Zealand and has moored at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay.
It comes as hospitalisations for COVID-19 continue to rise around the country.
The "fourth wave" of the disease has taken hold in the community and cases are rising, with some experts calling for the reintroduction of mask mandates in the lead-up to Christmas and beyond.
Image: Nine News