More than 1 million seafarers are trapped working on cargo ships around the world due to the coronavirus
China/Barcroft Media via Getty Images
- There are more than a million cargo ship crew members believed to be working seven days a week without choice because ships cannot dock during the pandemic.
- Since they live in close quarters, without much access to health equipment, sailors are seen as potential coronavirus carriers.
- Seafarers, many of whom struggle with mental health issues, are likely to feel additional pressure on these lengthened trips.
- A 2019 Yale University study of cargo ship workers found that 25% reported depression and 20% contemplated suicide or self-harm.
- Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.
More than one million cargo ship workers are working seven days a week because the coronavirus pandemic means they're not being allowed to disembark.
According to the South China Morning Post, there are about 50,000 merchant vessels in the world, and each vessel has an average crew of 22 people. The BBC reported there are currently 1.6 million seafarers caught in limbo.See the rest of the story at Business Insider
NOW WATCH: Why thoroughbred horse semen is the world's most expensive liquid
See Also: