Dr. Anthony Fauci does not believe “vaccine passports” are going to be mandated by the U.S. government to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You could foresee how an independent entity might say ‘Well, we can’t be dealing with you unless we know you’re vaccinated.’ But it’s not gonna be mandated from the federal government,” he told Politico Dispatch on Monday. President Joe Biden’s administration has reportedly explored the possibility of implementing a vaccine passport system.
In a January interview, Fauci said he did not anticipate a federal vaccine mandate or passport being put in place, but added that “everything will be on the table.” He also clarified that it’s not in his control: “It’s not up to me to make a decision. But these are all things that will be discussed.”
The state of New York has introduced the “Excelsior Pass,” which allows residents to verify their vaccination status in order to attend public gatherings like sporting events. Proponents of a vaccine passport say it would allow the economy to reopen faster and encourage people who are hesitant to get the shots. (RELATED: ANALYSIS: COVID-19 Vaccines Aren’t Mandatory Yet. Here’s How Biden Might Change That)
Opponents argue a passport is a violation of privacy and bodily autonomy. Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued an executive order against any such system from the federal government.
Through my work at the WHO, I’ve had more vaccines than most. From yellow fever to Japanese encephalitis, I had them all.
Some countries will demand a COVID vaccine passport, but their domestic use in Britain is unethical, counterproductive and chilling.
It’s wrong.
— Professor Karol Sikora (@ProfKarolSikora) April 5, 2021
Several other countries around the world have introduced vaccine passport systems, including Israel and China. Some have speculated proof of coronavirus vaccination may be required in the future for international travel.