WHO advises against using vaccine passports for international travel
(PTI desk)
A senior World Health Organization official said that so-called vaccine passports for COVID-19 should not be used for international travel because of numerous concerns, including ethical considerations that vaccines are not easily available globally. At a press briefing on Monday, WHO emergencies chief Dr. Michael Ryan said there are practical and ethical considerations for countries considering using vaccine certification as a condition for travel.
Vaccines aren't available on an equitable basis: Dr. Ryan
"Vaccination is just not available enough around the world and is not available certainly on an equitable basis," Dr. Ryan said. WHO had previously noted that it's still unknown how long immunity lasts from the numerous COVID-19 vaccines and that data is still being collected.
Strategy might be unfair to people who cannot be vaccinated
Ryan also noted the strategy might be unfair to people who cannot be vaccinated for certain reasons and that requiring vaccine passports might allow inequity and unfairness (to) be further branded into the system. Several countries and industries such as travel and entertainment, have been depending on vaccine passports to reopen the economy and businesses. However, the area still needs wider study.
China, Thailand ready to bring such passports into effect soon
According to the Global Times, China is set to approve such health certificates that will hold information about a person's inoculation record and will allow a safe person-to-person exchange. Thailand is also ready to issue such passports to individuals who have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations.
Thailand might completely waive off quarantine on arrival from October
According to a Bloomberg report, Thailand Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said that the mandatory quarantine period for vaccinated foreign visitors will be reduced to seven days. A national committee is expected to approve the proposals later this month. The move will open up the borders for tourists and the so-called vaccine passport holders may get a complete waiver from quarantine on arrival from October.
