MARGAO: No change in the protocol for vaccination on the portal has upset the seafarers, despite an announcement by the government a few days ago that the seafarers and students going aboard will be eligible for the second dose of COVID vaccine.
Several seafarers who have call letters in their hands are returning back after visiting the vaccination centres, hearing that no changes in the portal.
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Speaking to the media persons, Reginaldo Rodrigues, who is a restaurant manager in P&O Cruises for the past 26 years, said as per the government guidelines published in the newspapers had gone to take the second dose of vaccine, however, I had to return back without a jab.
“I had taken my first dose on April 7 and as I calculated the days, it is exactly 10 weeks now. So I went to the Urban Health Centre, Margao to take my second dose of vaccine. But to my surprise, I was told to go to the BPS Club, where all seamen asked to register there,” he informed.
He said after an inquiry with the doctor it was learnt that the changes in the portal with regard to vaccination of seafarers and students going abroad is not yet changed.
“Doctor also told me that if a second dose is administered the certificate will not be generated as per the guidelines. So, it is very much shocking for me. I am almost on verge of joining the ship,” he added.
Reginaldo is very much upset due to no arrangement for the second dose of the vaccine to the seafarers as announced by the government.
