In Focus: Covid-19 Solutions

Vikand, DasLab team on expedited COVID-19 testing for maritime sector

PHOTO: KIYOSHI HIJICKI/GETTY IMAGES CRUISE_doctor_analyzing_COVID-19-Photo-Kiyoshi_Hijiki_Getty Images).jpg
A common objective to reduce the spread of COVID-19
Maritime medical and public health service provider Vikand Solutions and COVID-19 testing facilitator DasLab partnered on a global end-to-end testing solution for the maritime industry.

The Vikand/DasLab alliance promises quick, effective COVID-19 testing for at-home and cruise terminal use to help lines safely return to service.

Cruise Lines International Association members have committed to 100% testing globally for ships with the capacity to carry more than 250 people.

Vikand and Das Lab said their partnership leverages the most current, best-in-class testing technology with a proven data-protected tracking application platform to provide rapid results.

Pre-travel and at-embarkation testing

'Our amalgamated technologies paired with the strength of our systems and medical staffs mean a reduction in the risk of COVID-19 infections,' said Daniel Fallscheer, chief commercial officer, DasLab. 'From pre-travel testing to mass rapid testing in terminals and airports with data management, the result is peace of mind when traveling.'

Passengers and crew will be tested 72 hours before departure — or as per cruise line requirements — via a lab network available within easy travel from their home within Europe. Technologies and guidelines for the US are under way.

At embarkation points, a secondary PCR test can be administrated to ensure the safest environment.

'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,' Vikand CEO Peter Hult said. 'As technology continues to rapidly evolve, we are committed together with our partners to use superlative, groundbreaking tests.'

DasLab and COVID-19 protocol testing solutions are intended for use at local labs and in ports through DasLab and on board with Vikand.

The alliance between the two companies encompasses testing and analytics for PCR, antigen and antibody tests, global lab coverage, digital solutions connecting labs with users and expert consulting.

Holistic approach

'There is immense strategic and holistic value in our alliance with our partner, DasLab,' Hult said. '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.'

DasLab is a digital testing aggregator platform with offices in Berlin, Munich, London, Boston and, opening soon, Singapore.

Fort Lauderdale-based Vikand Solutions works with more than 200 cruise ships across 23 lines. Earlier this month the company was named 2020 Supplier of the Year in the Seatrade Cruise Awards.