To vaccinate or test – the debate?
IATA’s DG Dr Alexandre de Juniac speaks about the effects of a long-term shutdown of travel on people, livelihoods & economies & the need for a balanced approach to safe travel through testing said, “A more balanced public policy approach is needed, one that is based on testing as a replacement for quarantines.”
Gloria Guevara, WTTC CEO & President, at the Reuters Next Conference on Tues & said, “It will take a significant amount of time to vaccinate the global population, IP those in less advanced countries, or in different age groups, therefore we should not discriminate against those who wish to travel but have not been vaccinated.”
In her opinion, everybody could travel safely by showing a negative test result. “Furthermore, the most vulnerable groups should be prioritised. WTTC has long been calling for an internationally recognised rapid & cost-effective testing regime at departure points worldwide. This would avoid exporting the virus & aid the restoration of international travel.”
Truth is to keep the world connected we need, “all-hands on deck”, well-reasoned, consistent, scientifically supported policies to manage the risks of COVID-19 & travel, right?
Jonathan Gerber Gavin Stevens Joelene Roberts Kim Parker Gillian Hurford