Officials in Italy mandated COVID booster injections for everyone over the age of 50 this week; joining Australia, Canada, and other countries attempting to slow the spread of Omicron and other potential variants of the virus.
"Today's measures aim to keep our hospitals functioning well and at the same time keep open schools and business activities," Prime Minister Mario Draghi said.
The order went into effect immediately and will last until mid-June.
“Draghi previously mandated vaccinations for teachers and health workers. All workers have been required to either show a negative COVID-19 test or be vaccinated before entering their workplaces or offices since October. People who do not comply with the policies will be suspended without pay,” reports the Hill.
Italy emerged as the epicenter of the global pandemic in early 2020, reporting widespread fatalities among the nation’s elderly population; particularly in the country’s southern regions.
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