This initiative started in July 2021 in support of all seafarers whose essential work keeps economies operating amid the global pandemic. In coordination with the ship Master and/or Agents, we continue to facilitate the first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccination in Halifax of seafarers, especially those onboard international vessels.
Procedurally, ship Masters and/or Agents contact us regarding the need to get crew members vaccinated and the schedule of the ship’s arrival. We then set a schedule with pharmacies or identify walk-in clinics (considering the number of crew and availability of doses). On the ship’s arrival, we deliver to the vessel the rapid test kits, which results are available in about 15 minutes. When results are negative, we transport or facilitate the transport (depending on the availability of the Mission van) of seafarers to the vaccination site and back to the ship.
This initiative is no longer active presently in the absence of seafarers’ demand for vaccination. However, should the need arise, we will endeavour to connect with provincial health authorities and our private health provider partners to ensure the seafarers get the health protection they need.
We are proud to partner with the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Health Authority on this initiative!
