This time last year, COVID-19 had us all shaking in fear.
And while it is no less dangerous now, the advent of vaccines have certainly given us a way to combat it.
The Government even hopes to have the nation vaccinated by the end of the year.
Everyone is advised to take it unless you’re part of a certain subgroup that should not be taking it, be it for pregnancy, allergies or other reasons.
But if you’re in Jakarta, Indonesia, refusing the vaccine if you’re medically eligible could actually get you punished.
Jakarta Threatening to Fine Residents S$474 If They Refuse to Take COVID-19 Vaccines
It’s been reported that those who do not want to be vaccinated in Jakarta can be fined up to roughly S$474.
Deputy Jakarta Governor Ahmad Riza Patria said that along with the fine, social aid will also not be given.
To clarify, this is for those who are eligible to take the jab but refuse to do so.
This is likely a way to enforce the new law in Indonesia, which stated that vaccines were mandatory.
For those unaware, Indonesia has more than 1.24 million COVID-19 cases and over 33,700 deaths.
Near the end of last year, the country also saw a new virus strain emerge.
This then led to a two-week ban from visitors during January.
Attempts To Vaccinate The Nation
Earlier this week, it was reported that getting a vaccination in Indonesia is now mandatory, though the specific penalties weren’t mentioned then.
And within 15 months, the Indonesian government aims to get 181.5 million of its 270 million population vaccinated.
This is in hopes that the country reaches herd immunity.
Those who refuse would be denied social assistance, government services or made to pay a fine.
Penalties would also be determined by regional health agencies or by local governments.
However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) feels that making vaccines compulsory is counter-productive.
One reason cited was that it might increase what vaccine hesitancy is already present (i.e. the more you force the more I refuse).
And unless you live in cave, you probably know that the vaccine isn’t compulsory in Singapore but it’s recommended that everyone who’s medically eligible to take it.
Featured Image: Miriam Doerr Martin Frommherz / Shutterstock.com
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