Mandatory COVID vaccination possible in Ukraine, health chief admits

The issue was discussed on the air of the Freedom of Speech panel show, Ukrinform reports.

Asked by a host, whether he allows a possibility of compulsory vaccination, Liashko responded: “I do allow it.”

“Today, vaccination is free and voluntary. The possibility of introducing certain categories of occupations into the mandate is also being considered. It is a contingent that shall be allowed to come to work after a full course of vaccination for certain infectious diseases. Such options are being considered, but we took into account the EU and U.S. experience: where restrictions have been introduced, while they are not applied to those vaccinated,” the head of the Ministry of Health said.

"All in good time," he said, recalling that people over the age of 60 remain a priority, as 82% of all deaths were among this category.

Also, over the past day, 1,086 patients were hospitalized, 2,156 – recovered, while COVID-related death toll rose by 137.

Since the onset of the pandemic, 2,355,805 people have contracted the coronavirus in Ukraine, of whom 2,333,573 recovered, and 55,056 died.