A future COVID-19 vaccine could become mandatory for entry into certain countries. The issue is currently high on the agenda among the world's decision-makers.
”"If you want to do certain things, you may need to get vaccinated even if you didn't intend to," says Sweden's vaccine coordinator Richard Bergström.
For some, vaccination is a given, while others worry about possible side effects. But an important dimension is often overlooked in the discussions: Depending on life circumstances, some people may need to get vaccinated regardless, according to Richard Bergström.
”"In addition to what authorities recommend – and what citizens themselves want – we will need to take into account the requirements set by other countries and in certain places. This is something that is being discussed everywhere right now; within the EU, the World Health Organization and among colleagues in the sector," he says.
In his job as Sweden's vaccine coordinator, stationed in Geneva, Switzerland, Bergström hears more and more voices being raised for future vaccination requirements in various sectors.
”"If you want to do certain things, you may need to get vaccinated. Regarding travel, several countries are already expressing requirements for vaccination and some form of certificate for entry. The USA, Japan... several countries have already decided or are considering this," he says.
And it's not just in the travel industry that vaccination requirements could become a reality. According to Richard Bergström, there is also discussion about whether vaccination certificates could be required at universities and workplaces around the world.
”For universities with many international students, it is a matter of survival to be able to resume their operations. This could be the US, the UK, Singapore and other places where many travel to study. I have already heard of universities that will require both staff and students to be vaccinated to create a safe campus.”
In many countries, workplaces where many people stay, such as hospitals, prisons and nursing homes, may also require vaccination in order to obtain employment, according to Bergström.
But how will it actually work? Extensive work is currently underway to develop a plan for the technical details.
”"There are projects at WHO that are looking at different technologies and standards for, for example, a digital yellow vaccination passport. Many are working on the infrastructure around this; what will be needed, who will need and demand them."”
In his role as vaccine coordinator, Richard Bergström is responsible for ensuring that a future vaccine enters Sweden, but also for keeping an eye on what is happening in the outside world – how the discussions are going, what is new – and reporting back to the government.
”"I have shared the observation regarding vaccination requirements. I think we need to keep this in mind and start paying attention to the demands that may be made, not only from authorities but also from civil society and the private sector," he says.
The challenges surrounding a future vaccine have been many and long – but now Bergström sees a bright spot.
”"Things are going well. We have seven agreements that will be finalized shortly for different types of vaccines. We are investing broadly.".
Source: TT
