New Delhi: Amid the rising concerns over a new variant of Covid-19 ‘Omicron’ in many countries – the UN Secretary-General on Thursday said that “travel bans against certain countries because of the new covid-19 variant are not an effective way and are Unfair,” Consequently, many countries upheld travel bans for travelers from African countries which had positive cases.
“With a virus that is truly borderless, travel restrictions that isolate any one country or region are not only deeply unfair and punitive, but they are also ineffective,” Guterres added.
According to the media report, Last week, South Africa had reported the cases for the new variant and the World Health Organization had named it Omicron. Soon after South Africa, cases were reported from other countries including Botswana, Italy, Germany, the UK, Israel, etc.
India has also isolated three travelers from “at-risk” countries who have tested positive for covid-19. It is not yet confirmed if they are infected with the Omicron variant.
South Africa’s foreign ministry said that “The country is being punished for their “ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished.”
Guterres further added that the governments need to work together with other appropriate and truly effective measures to cope with the new threat. This is the only way to reduce the risk of transmission while allowing for travel and economic engagement.
(_Vinayak)