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CROATIA and Austria have set a limit on the expiration date of COVID-19 vaccines on tourists visiting their countries. The two countries are reported to have imposed a 270-day expiration limit for vaccines received, which means about nine months from when the full vaccine is received by tourists.
This update to travel rules means that travelers who wish to visit these countries with proof of vaccination, must now prove that it has been less than 270 days since they received their second dose.
As per the rules set by the government, those traveling to Croatia can 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 go through quarantine.
In addition, tourists who are survivors can show evidence of having recovered. Those visiting Croatia, will also be asked to show that they have prepaid accommodation.
As for Austria, travelers must 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 taken within 48 hours of their arrival.
Children under 12 years of age are exempt from testing. The decision follows that the world is currently debating how and when to give a booster shot of the vaccine. As per reports, with the advent of the Delta variant, the overall vaccine efficacy has dropped to 39%, however, the efficacy against hospitalization remains 75% to 95%. [sources/photo special]
