By Nneka Nwogwugwu
Singapore is making plans to distribute at least 12,000 Covid-19 vaccine doses for international seafarers for the next phase of its crew vaccination programme.
Under the Sea Crew Vaccination (SEAVAX) Initiative established in August, Singapore started vaccinating non-resident seafarers. its next phase of the scheme took effect from 15 November and runs through 30 June 2022.
To date more than 8,000 non-Singaporean sea crew have received at least one vaccination dose in the Republic, and 90% are fully vaccinated. These comprise 5,200 resident crew working in harbour waters, and 2,800 non-resident crew.
Under the SEAVAX initiative international seafarers can be vaccinated with one dose of Moderna either while undertaking crew change in Singapore or when their vessels call at the port. The vaccine is available as first, second and booster shots with costs fully borne by the industry.
Secretary-General of the IMO, Kitack Lim commented: “I am heartened to hear of the extension of the programme to make available at least 12,000 vaccine doses to vaccinate sea crew onboard ocean-going vessels calling at Singapore and signing on to ships in Singapore. Initiatives like this strengthen my belief that we will be able to overcome the crew change crisis and safeguard the health and well-being of our seafarers as we strive to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.”
While vaccination for international seafarers is available in the US and a growing number of European states, Asian countries have been slow to follow suit.
Source: Business Transport
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