The World Health Organisation (WHO) has advised countries against demanding proof that travellers have vaccinated against coronavirus.
At present, proof of immunisation against diseases such as yellow fever is required at some international borders in accordance with the International Health Regulations.
The WHO said although there is evidence vaccination breaks the chain of transmission, the current inequity in distribution makes such requirements unfair and unethical.
“Do not require proof of vaccination as a condition of entry, given the limited (although growing) evidence about the performance of vaccines in reducing transmission and the persistent inequity in the global vaccine distribution,” said a statement summarising the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee meeting held April 15.
The results of the committee meeting were only published on Monday.
The group’s recommendation comes as numerous countries are mulling launching vaccine passports for travellers but also for other activities including sports.
“States Parties are strongly encouraged to acknowledge the potential for requirements of proof of vaccination to deepen inequities and promote differential freedom of movement,” said the committee.
Currently, most countries in Africa have vaccinated less than one per cent (About 15 million according to Africa CDC data) of their populations while in Europe and US are past 50 per cent.
The idea of introducing Covid-19 vaccination passports has been garnering attention across the world, as the passports have been touted as a way for people who are vaccinated to go places more easily, whether that be traveling or to a restaurant.