Members of the public, particularly elderly persons and those with underlying medical conditions, are being reminded to ensure they undergo thorough medical check-ups prior to undertaking long-distance maritime travel.
This is an urgent plea by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) following a medical incident involving an elderly man at the Natovi Jetty yesterday.
While the incident did not occur onboard a vessel, MSAF extended its sincere sympathies to the family and loved ones of the elderly man during this difficult time.
MSAF is urging members of the public to take extra precautions during the current hot and humid weather conditions.
They advise that adequate hydration is essential, and travellers are strongly encouraged to drink plenty of water before and during their journey.
MSAF says it continues to work closely with relevant stakeholders to promote safety and wellbeing across Fiji’s maritime sector.
MSAF's reminder comes after another similar incident last Monday, when police confirmed that a 58-year-old female passenger reportedly fainted while onboard Interlink Shipping’s MV Ohana.
She was rushed to hospital but later passed away.
Interlink Shipping General Manager Adrial Prasad told fijivillage News that a doctor was present onboard at the time of the incident and provided medical assistance when the woman collapsed.
He added that the doctor suggested the woman may have suffered a cardiac arrest, as she was pronounced dead shortly after the episode.
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