VIKAND, the global public health and medical solutions provider to the international commercial maritime, cruise, yachting and offshore industries, has clinched a deal to be the exclusive global distributor of the first US government-approved device capable of detecting coronavirus infections in patients’ breath.

The InspectIR Systems PNY-1000 Covid-19 Breathalyzer has just received ‘emergency use authorization’ by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is seen as a game changer for the maritime and cruise industries in that infections can be detected in only three minutes, freeing up the time taken to test large numbers of passenger and crew.

Each PNY-1000 breathalyzer is capable of testing up to 20 people per hour, greatly enhancing the efficiency of the overall testing process. It can be administered at healthcare facilities or at mobile testing sites using an instrument the size of an item of carry-on luggage.

VIKAND will be displaying the unit and scheduling private demonstrations at this week’s Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami, Florida.

Welcoming news of the distribution deal with InspectIR Systems, VIKAND’s CEO Peter Hult said: “The fact that the FDA has authorized this exciting Covid-19 Breathalyzer is without doubt a game changer for shipping because it means that finally we have an effortless way to undertake large scale testing. It now means that the entire testing process has been made a whole lot easier and more comfortable for those being screened, including even children old enough to blow into a straw.

“We are honoured and delighted to be collaborating with the excellent team at InspectIR Systems who have produced a very valuable tool to keep our seafarers safe,” Peter said.

Tim Wing, InspectIR Systems Co-Founder and CEO, underlined the importance of the distribution and cooperation deal with VIKAND, saying it was exciting that the important global cruise and general maritime sectors had the necessary tools now to protect those onboard, whether passengers or crew.

“InspectIR Systems is excited to work with the fantastic team at VIKAND. When we began our search for long term distribution partners in the maritime space, VIKAND quickly rose to the top of our list. We believe the PNY-1000, when partnered with VIKAND’s maritime expertise, will revolutionize how COVID tests are administered throughout the industry.”

John Redmond, InspectIR co-founder & President added: “We look forward to partnering with VIKAND today and into the future as InspectIR Systems continues to expand its testing products and screening services beyond COVID-19.”