Maritime medical and public health service provider, Vikand, and laboratory testing facilitator, DasLab, have co-operated to bring a COVID-19 testing solution for the cruise industry.
The alliance claims to provide quick, effective COVID-19 testing solutions for at home and terminal testing as per return-to-service recommendations. Leveraging the most current, testing technology with a proven data-protected tracking application platform, the partnership provides quick results.
Daniel Fallscheer, DasLab CCO, explained: “Our amalgamated technologies paired with the strength of our systems and medical staffs mean a reduction in the risk of COVID-19 infections.
“From pre-travel testing to mass rapid testing in terminals and airports with data management, the result is peace of mind when travelling,” he added.
Guests and crew will be tested 72 hours before departure—or as per cruise line requirements before departure—via a laboratory network available within easy reach of their home within Europe. Technologies and guidelines for the US are currently underway.
At embarkation points, a secondary PCR test can be administrated.
“Our combined objective is to provide efficient testing, in-depth logistical support and health services for the safety of the global cruise industry, its guests and crew. As technology continues to rapidly evolve, we are committed together with our partners to use superlative, ground breaking tests,” said Peter Hult, Vikand CEO.
DasLab and Vikand COVID-19 protocol testing solutions are intended for use at local labs and in ports through DasLab and on board using Vikand.
“By joining forces with Vikand we are bringing best-in-class end-to-end solutions to the maritime industry to enable safer operations during the current pandemic,“ said Fallscheer. “At its founding—in a direct response to combat the COVID-19 crisis—DasLab forged our vision to enable a fast and lasting return to a steady-state economic and civil life for all people in the cities, regions and countries while avoiding next waves and minimising fatalities. Of course, this includes life and work at sea.”
The alliance between the companies encompasses testing and analytics for PCR, antigen and antibody tests, global lab coverage, digital solutions connecting labs with users, and expert consulting.
“There is immense strategic and holistic value in our alliance with our partner, DasLab,” Hult added. “Our thought and practice leadership is expanding to bring the maritime industry evidence-based solutions which promote ever higher degrees of health and wellness on board.
“As today’s increased stakes and complexities require rapid expert response, it is vital to be able to form joint initiatives with global leaders to offer uniquely complementary and comprehensive models,” he concluded.
