Fisheries all over the world have suffered major declines over the COVID-19 public health crisis. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce and NOAA, high value species like tuna, halibut, sablefish, lobster, scallops, salmon, snappers, and shrimp are especially impacted in the market by restaurant closures and social protective measures. A recent survey shows that 91% of Northeast commercial fishermen and 97% of Southeast commercial fishermen suffered reduced landings revenues of more than 50%. The market is quick to show major declines as a direct result of what’s going on in the outside world. If you fish one of these high value species, your income is at stake.
For this reason, the new COVID variant, Omicron is something to watch out for. Studies are showing that Omicron may be less severe than other variants, yet more transmissible spreading rapidly across the population. Omicron also has a high number of mutations, (over 50) making it more transmissible and better at evading our immune systems.
According to the World Health Organization, omicron cases are doubling every one-and-a-half to three days. This is a major reason for the spike in cases around the world and the current outbreak in the U.S. A world-wide outbreak will lead to more protective measures, more social restrictions, and more lost revenue.
What can you do as a fisherman to protect your business and income? Get vaccinated and/or boosted. Use our Vaccine Finder to locate your vaccination. Catch Fish. Not COVID.
The chart below shows the national case rates from the CDC of unvaccinated compared to vaccinated individuals. Lower case rates in our local communities, regional areas, states, nation, and world-wide will mean less restrictions and a return to higher revenues.
