The United States Coats Guard published an advisory highlighting that shipowners and operators should report the illness or death of persons on board, otherwise they will face delays and disruption of operations, such as returning to the previous port after sailing.
Specifically, the COVID-19 outbreak has seriously impacted the whole shipping industry and has brought many challenges.
Thus, the USCG notes that
Reporting delays create significant challenges to protect persons on board vessels and,...
https://safety4sea.com/uscg-vessel-reporting-requirements-for-illness-or-death/