Rabat, October 27 (BNA) The Moroccan Minister of Health said that the introduction of a vaccine permit last week to reach public places has led to a more than fivefold increase in the number of people seeking stings, as opponents of the measure criticized it in Parliament.
The government introduced the card on Thursday to access all government buildings, as well as spaces such as cafes, restaurants, cinemas, gyms and transportation, with the aim of expanding Africa’s most comprehensive vaccination programme, Reuters reported.
The Union of Café and Restaurant Owners, the Bar Association, human rights organizations, and some opposition parties have attacked the corridor in a variety of ways, calling it unconstitutional, arbitrary, or a threat to the economy.
Health Minister Khaled Ait Taleb, speaking in parliament, said the decision is in line with an emergency government decree issued last year that gives authorities the right to take exceptional measures to protect public health.
“The adoption of the vaccine corridor aims to encourage people who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated and prevent virus hotspots,” he said.
He said the number of people vaccinated had risen by more than 400% since the passage was imposed.
Morocco dosed 64% of its population with the AstraZeneca, Sinopharm and Pfizer vaccines. She has also started giving booster punches.
He said that in the next few weeks, Morocco will be able to vaccinate 6 million people to reach a group immunity level of 80% of its population over 12 years old.
He said the vaccination campaign will be extended to include illegal immigrants and other vulnerable groups.
Two members of Parliament were prevented from attending the questioning session with the minister, according to opposition members, who said there was insufficient consultation and too little notice before the permit was imposed.