The UK reportedly plans to test “coronavirus status certifications” in the coming weeks to determine whether or not people can return to mass gatherings such as concerts, sporting events and nightclubs.
The Associated Press reports that the studies will gather evidence as to how various factors influencing events such as ventilation and social detachment can lead to major events resuming, citing the UK authorities. People attending such events in April and May should be tested for the coronavirus before and after attending.
UK officials are also examining COVID-19 passports revealing whether or not a person has been vaccinated, recently undergone a COVID-19 test, or has some form of immunity to the virus, either through illness or immunization, the AP reports.
The passes may include the use of an app or physical notes for those who do not have access to technology.
UK Sport Secretary Nigel Huddleston told reporters, “the first pilots will almost certainly not include elements of certification” and will instead test before and after events. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to share more details about the plan on Monday, the AP reports.
“We are committed to making the reopening of our country possible so that people can return as safely as possible to the events, trips and other things they love, and these assessments will play an important role in making this happen, Johnson said. , the AP said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the UK has confirmed more than 4.3 million coronavirus cases and more than 126,000 deaths, making it the most affected European country. More than 35 million doses of coronavirus vaccine have been administered to date.
The idea of coronavirus passports has been a topic of debate in the US and many GOP lawmakers have come out against it. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki
Jen PsakiHarris In Difficult Lead Role At Border DeSantis Issues Executive Order To Ban Vaccine Passports White House Delays Release Of Budget Plan MORE has said there are currently no plans for a federal mandate requiring individuals to obtain vaccination records and that there will be no centralized federal database.
However, last week it was reported that the White House is working with private companies to develop a standard for vaccination data. The Washington Post reports that the initiative will include free apps that can display a scannable code similar to that of an airplane boarding pass.