- The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) have recently updated guidance in regard to vaccination of seafarers.
- The ICS has published COVID-19 Roadmap for Vaccination of International Seafarers.
- It sets forth a framework to establish vaccination hubs dedicated to seafarers across the world, alongside other major maritime non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- The roadmap sets out procedures for a program that can be implemented by all stakeholders concerned to facilitate safe ship crew vaccination during the COVID-19.
An American Club press release brings out the roadmap for vaccination of international seafarers.
The roadmap for shipping companies
This roadmap can be used by shipping companies (as well as, their agents and representatives, including crew agencies), maritime administrations and national health authorities, in liaison with other authorities (such as local customs, immigration, border control, seaport and civil aviation) and seafarers, during the planning and roll-out stages of the vaccination program.
The North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA)
At this time, local seafarers’ welfare organizations in ports around the United States are facilitating vaccines for foreign seafarers, where this is possible, at local pharmacies and with local health providers.
In certain locations, there is also the possibility of health officials coming to the ship to vaccinate crew.
Near many ports in the United States, pharmacies (e.g. CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Publix, Rite-Aid) have been ready to welcome foreign seafarers, though there are differences on what forms of identification are required and whether appointments are needed.
Shipping companies or agents might wish to find out more, in a local context, through the NAMMA website at: https://namma.org/vaccines/.
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Source: American Club
