06.09.2021

COVID Passports 

Listen to the most recent episode of my podcast: COVID passport

I read an interesting article about covid passports which are increasingly common in many countries; however, it is controversial, according to New Scientist.

Covid passes are used for the evidence of immunity to coronavirus and there are mainly three criteria such as a negative test result in the past day or two, a positive result in the past 6 months which means natural immunity and having vaccines. 

Many nations including France and Italy are using the covid passes to grant access to people who are going to large events, bars and restaurants.

I found the reasons from the article as to why the passes may not work. 

That criteria cannot prove that someone is 100% Covid-19 free because the test results can be false, and vaccination is not perfect. 

Besides, no study shows that it helps the vaccination rates to increase. 

Additionally, the article stated the ethical problems too. Forcing people to hold a covid pass is bringing a limitation of freedom of choice. 

Moreover, it can prevent people in low-income countries from participating in international travel.

I think the biggest risk from introducing the passes is that it may lead to misunderstanding among people. 

If someone has a covid pass, the person may feel free from coronavirus. 

As the article mentioned, the passes do not prove perfect virus-free results, but it can encourage people to avoid taking necessary precautions. 

For example, my husband who works in a covid hot spot was following a recommendation from the government to get tested every three days, but he stopped going for tests after having the first dose of vaccination.

He said that I have already had a vaccine, so I do not need tests as frequently as before. 

I was so surprised even my husband has a wrong idea towards immunity! It takes two to three weeks to develop immunity and he can still get and transmit the virus even after developing immunity.

I think that education is significantly important when using covid passes.

We cannot force people to get vaccinated since it is a personal decision from the ethical point of view, but at least the authorities have to provide correct information and educate people.

I support covid passes but the article gave me an opportunity to understand the different points of view.

English is my second language, so you may find incorrect sentences.

It would be great help if you leave a comment for me. 

Thank you for reading!

Listen to the most recent episode of my podcast: COVID passport