Manning and Training
Alliance Crew Vaccination After living in the new reality called Covid for 18 months, we have learned to cope with restrictions. During this period, fear has often been the predominant feeling worldwide as to what would come next. In the maritime industry, we controlled the situation partially with measures such as wearing P.P.E., social distancing and quarantines. However, the measure that By Panagiotis Bartzis will finally liberate us and allow us to forego all restrictions is vaccination, as it will help us build up an immunity against the virus. The Company recognizes seafarers as essential workers that keep our economy strong but at the same time, it acknowledges how vulnerable they can be as front liners. As such, the Company is fully committed to safeguarding the health of our Seafarers. In line with this commitment, M/V ALLIANCE was the first vessel in the fleet to have the crew fully vaccinated with
Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine on 29th and 30th May in Astoria, Oregon, USA. The crew were divided into four groups and, over a period of two days, were brought ashore to an accredited vaccination center. Prior to the vaccination, the whole crew completed questionnaires that were screened by medical personnel ashore and our Company’s designated doctor. A few days after the vaccination, the Master reported that a few crew members had experienced mild side effects that lasted for about 24 hours, which is a completely normal and anticipated reaction of our immune system. Until now, this service has only been available to seafarers in the USA, but more maritime centers and major ports are expected to start vaccinating the crews of vessels calling at their ports soon. We will endeavour to continue having our crews vaccinated when the circumstances allow it. We will also ensure that it will be done in the safest possible manner by taking into consideration the vessels’ current operations and the anticipated side effects after the vaccination.
Crew receiving vaccines at a local drug store
M/V Alliance crew with their vaccination certificates
10
Issue 76-June 2021
AB Warren Jay being vaccinated
ETO Jesus Cabanig being vaccinated
