NEW DELHI: Indian warships deployed in international waters are avoiding all port calls in wake of the coronavirus pandemic, even as it was reported on Wednesday that three American sailors on board aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt deployed in the Philippine Sea had tested positive for Covid-19.“Indian warships, whether they are deployed in the Gulf of Aden for anti-piracy patrols, in the Strait of Hormuz under Operation Sankalp or in the Malacca Strait and other areas, are following protocols to ensure Covid-19 does not make any inroads,” said an officer.This has led to several port calls – usually undertaken to build fmaritime ties as well as get replenishments – already being cancelled. “We are trying to ensure our warships are refueled at sea as far as possible. As per instructions, a warship will enter a foreign port only if there is a specific operational requirement and depart as soon as it is fulfilled after minimal interaction,” he said.“Moreover, health parameters of all sailors on board the warships are also being monitored. Any sailor found to have Covid-19 symptoms will be isolated and subsequently evacuated,” he added.The Navy had earlier deferred its mega “Milan” exercise, which would have witnessed the participation of navies from over 32 countries, which was to be held off the coast of Visakhapatnam from March 18 to 28.