The COVID-19 pandemic shook the world, ravaging lives, economies and livelihoods in the process. As the world looks forward to a perhaps new beginning, where the virus becomes under control, there are several questions that remain unanswered. As we speak, two vaccines have been approved for use, the jabs produced by Pfizer and Moderna respectively.
The vaccines have been produced at record speed, utilising new technology. In order for these vaccines to be effective, a large percentage of people needs to be inoculated. If people would simply refuse the vaccine, the potential positive effects would be diluted into nothingness. Considering the global demand, together with the investment and speed with which these vaccines were produced, no government can afford to have its citizens blatantly refusing the vaccine. In this regard, one notices the global campaigns to encourage people to take the vaccine and make COVID-19 a thing of the past. In order for the vaccines to be truly effective, we will need to reach a stage of herd immunity, meaning that a significant percentage of the population needs to be immune to the virus to minimise its spread and potential impact. All those who took the COVID-19 vaccine will be able to showcase proof via a document.
In this article, we shall discuss the implications of a COVID-19 vaccine certificate and how this may impact life as we know it.
Travel
Some airline operators have already committed to stating that they would not allow travel access to those who do not present a COVID-19 certificate. If this becomes a trend amongst airline companies, all those who cannot present such a certificate may have very limited travel options, and that is something no one wants, right? Countries with high levels of vaccination may not be too inclined to accept tourists who have not been vaccinated.
Events and entertainment
In a post COVID-19 world, many would expect to take part in events with many attendees. In order to ensure no COVID-19 spread, organisers may ask those willing to attend to show proof that they were vaccinated. In the absence of such a certificate, people may be denied entry, with the same applying for restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and other places of entertainment.
In view of such developments, some may argue that the vaccine is being imposed upon them. It may be deemed against one’s human rights if indirectly forced to take any vaccine. In view of this ongoing pandemic, what are your views? Let us know in the comments section below.
