The International Maritime Organization has released guidelines it hopes port states will abide by in providing seafarers medical treatment.

Amid the worldwide crewing crisis, some of the tens of thousands of seafarers stuck aboard their ships have complained they have been denied medical care over concerns they could spread Covid-19 shoreside.

The 26-point programme from the United Nations agency include recommendations for crew, authorities and ship operators in the hope of easing the process of getting a seafarer on shore and treated.