IN PICTURES: Indian Navy, Coast Guard conducts mid sea medical evacuation to rescue Philipino sailor

Kochi, Sept 29: A medical evacuation was undertaken by Headquarters Southern Naval Command (SNC) using Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) from Merchant Vessel MV Lyric Poet off Kochi.

 

 

The Southern Naval Command Headquarters received input from the Coast Guard Headquarters at around 4 pm about a suspected Covid-positive case of a Filipino crew member on board Merchant Vessel MV Lyric Poet off Kochi. An Advanced Light Helicopter of the Indian Navy was scrambled from INS Garuda.

 

"Ship's local agent intimated that the medical condition of Chief Officer, Michel John Abaygar was severely deteriorating with O2 level dropping and required immediate medical evacuation. The vessel was en route from Gibraltar to Machong," the Indian Navy said.

 

 

The naval helicopter carried out the medical evacuation in adverse weather. A Navy statement said that the pilots displayed tremendous skill and professionalism, and successfully completed the mission despite unfavourable conditions and ensured safe evacuation of the patient.

 

 

"Advance Light Helicopter was launched from INS Garuda at short notice for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) in adverse weather. The pilots of the helicopter displayed tremendous skill and professionalism and successfully completed the mission despite unfavourable conditions and ensured safe evacuation of the patient," it said.

 

The officials also stated that the patient was brought to INS Garuda and transferred to the Naval Hospital, Sanjivini, for further medical assistance adhering to all COVID-19 protocols.