Some countries are planning to set expiration dates for vaccines. And as per the latest reports, a pair of European countries have gone ahead to set an expiration date, when it comes to travel. This latest move will likely bring about more changes in the ever-changing international travel landscape.
Currently, Croatia and Austria, have reportedly, implemented a 270-day expiration for accepted vaccines, which means the time frame is around nine months. With this latest travel update, this also means that travelers who are keen to visit these countries with proof of vaccination, will now have to prove that it has been less than 270 days since they received their second dose.
As per the rules laid out by the government, those travelling to Croatia can either choose to show proof of a negative test report that has been taken within 72 hours of traveling for a PCR test, or within 48 hours of traveling for an antigen test, or show proof of vaccination to enter the country and skip quarantine. Also, travellers can opt to show proof that they contracted COVID-19 earlier and have now recovered. Do note that those visiting Croatia, will also be required to show that they have a pre-paid accommodation.
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As regarding Austria, it is welcoming travelers from the United States who show proof of vaccination, or proof of a negative PCR test that has been taken within 72 hours of their arrival, or proof of a negative antigen test taken that they have undergone within 48 hours of their arrival. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing.
The said decision to set expiration dates for vaccines comes at a time when the world is debating how and when to administer booster shots of vaccines. As per the reports, with the emergence of the Delta variant, the overall vaccine efficacy has dropped to 39 per cent, however, efficacy against hospitalization remains 75 per cent to 95 per cent.
