Soon, visitors to the U.K. might need COVID-19 booster shots to avoid quarantine and testing upon arrival.
Previously, individuals who’d received two COVID-19 shots were categorized as fully vaccinated. Therefore, they were exempt from quarantine requirements.
However, many public health experts now believe that boosters are vital. After six months, vaccine-acquired COVID-19 immunity begins to fade.
Because people spend significant time packed together indoors during the winter, fading immunity from springtime vaccinations could lead to case spikes. A prior negative test will not be enough to avoid the new restrictions.
Though this may inspire some people to seek a third shot, that possibility remains to be seen. The policy change could also discourage prospective visitors, draining tourist dollars from the U.K.
Government authorities are considering all aspects of tourist booster requirements. Though their plan is controversial, many health authorities say it’s prudent.
The implementation date of these measures is unclear. Though some government workers say the plan will undoubtedly move forward, they haven’t supplied specific timelines.
Other officials have suggested that grace periods might be in order. People who’ve signed up to receive a booster but have not yet received an appointment might receive exemptions.
Meanwhile, nearly 10 million U.K. citizens have already gotten a COVID-19 booster. Most recipients are over age 50.
The National Health Service has repeatedly sent invitations for citizens to get third shots, and it will continue to do so.
Some countries in continental Europe are having a more challenging time controlling COVID-19. Eleven members of the European Union have recently experienced spikes in case numbers, and the European Center for Disease Control recommends travelers avoid such locations.
Higher-risk destinations include the following nations: Austria, Croatia, Belgium, Ireland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Romania, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Bulgaria.