Foreign seafarer rescued after suspected chemical-gas exposure off Vung Tau

The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre received an emergency medical assistance request from MSC Vietnam Co., Ltd. on September 28 concerning a crew member of MSC HERMES III, which flies the Liberian flag.

At the time, the vessel was heading towards Vung Tau Buoy No. 0 for repairs. According to the captain, the seafarer may have inhaled chemical fumes while working aboard the vessel before developing abnormal symptoms, vomiting and subsequently losing consciousness.

The crew member was assessed to be in serious condition and at risk of life, prompting an urgent request for medical assistance.

The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre immediately activated a rescue response and arranged for medical advice to be provided. At 9:15pm on September 28, SAR 272, which was on standby in Phuoc Thang Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, was deployed to the scene. Two medical personnel from the Ho Chi Minh City Border Guard joined the rescue mission to provide first aid and medical care during the transfer.

While SAR 272 was travelling to the vessel, the rescue team remained in close contact with the MSC HERMES III and relevant agencies to coordinate the response, ensure the seafarer’s safety and minimise the time needed to bring the casualty ashore.

The seafarer was subsequently brought safely back to shore and handed over to the relevant authorities for further medical examination, care and treatment.

Vietnamese doctors brave rough seas at night to rescue Russian crew member suspect

A Russian crew member who suddenly suffered paralysis on one side of his body while a container ship was sailing on an international maritime route was successfully brought ashore for emergency treatment through the coordination of doctors from FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City.