Port News: Protecting our community: border workers receive COVID-19 vaccine at LPC

Over 230 frontline workers at LPC have now had their first dose of the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine.

LPC border workers including cargo handlers, marine pilots, security and other members of the team are some of the first essential workers in New Zealand to get vaccinated in the fight against COVID-19.

The vaccine provides another layer of protection for our border workers, who remain focused on physical distancing, using PPE and masks and having increased hygiene and cleaning measures.

Our border-facing staff are also continuing to undergo weekly and fortnightly COVID-19 testing, depending on their role.

LPC foreman Robbie Winder, who had his vaccination in the first week of clinics, says he’s excited to be one of the first.

“I’m happy to play my part to keep COVID-19 out of the country. Getting the vaccine is really to support the wellbeing of New Zealand.”

As part of Robbie’s role as foreman, he is a main point of contact for foreign crew on vessels that visit the Port.

“Every time there is a vessel in Port, there is a foreman on the ship, so I deal a lot with crew.

“It’s great to have the vaccine to know that we are as safe as we can be out there and we can get on with our job.”

As more doses are made available, household contacts will also be eligible to get the vaccine.

“I can’t wait for my whole family to get it. It’s a big step towards relieving the impact of COVID-19.”

The vaccine clinics are held on site and run by Canterbury District Health Board who work with Pegasus Health to provide vaccination and testing clinics.

With a second dose required three weeks after the initial shot, clinics will continue to be held in the coming months to cover LPC’s border-facing workforce.

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