New York "All Employers Must Mandate Vaccination"‥Italy Implements 'Super Green Pass'

Strengthening Vaccine Passes Worldwide
New York Requires One Dose for Children Aged 5-11 to Enter Restaurants

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] From now on, companies or stores operating in New York City, USA, must hire only those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Children must also receive at least one dose of the vaccine to enter restaurants and theaters.

On the 6th (local time), New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a vaccine mandate for the private sector, stating, "We have decided to prevent further spread of COVID-19 through a preemptive strike." Entry regulations for restaurants and theaters were also strengthened, requiring children to receive at least one dose and adults at least two doses of the vaccine.

The announcement from New York City was sudden. This is because, amid controversy over the Biden administration's mandate for employees of private companies with 100 or more workers to be vaccinated, the mayor, who is one month away from leaving office, introduced the strongest regulatory measures.

Companies are dissatisfied. Katherine Wylde, CEO of Partnership for New York City, warned that "there are complaints about having to fire employees who are not vaccinated," and that this measure will make the labor shortage even more difficult.

New York City also introduced measures to expand vaccination for children. Since vaccination for children was allowed last month, this decision aims to eliminate blind spots in vaccination. Vaccination is also required to enter health clubs, gyms, professional sports stadiums, and swimming pools, in addition to restaurants. For adults, the requirement was strengthened from at least one dose to at least two doses.

According to the New York City Department of Health, only 19% of children aged 5-11 have been vaccinated, and the COVID-19 infection rate is the highest among all age groups. Parents' anxiety remains. Kali Mairedi, who has three elementary school children, expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, saying, "75% of New York City parents are anxious about their children's vaccination."

Europe is also imposing regulations on unvaccinated individuals one after another. In Italy, from today, unvaccinated people are restricted from entering indoor public places such as restaurants, bars, theaters, and soccer stadiums under the 'Super Green Pass' system.

The existing Green Pass was required for entry to museums, art galleries, gyms, and for using long-distance transportation such as trains, airplanes, and express buses, as well as for commuting to private and public workplaces. Violating the Super Green Pass and general Green Pass regulations can result in a fine of up to 1,000 euros (approximately 1.33 million won).