Jamaican Economy Panel Discussion Four on Vaccine Hesitancy | July 2021

To address the issue of vaccine hesitancy, in addition to information campaigns, the panelists also show substantial support for distinguishing health regulations between the vaccinated and the unvaccinated. The panelists note that a differentiated policy, such as different quarantine periods, should be instituted and communicated widely. There is strong support for motivating the unvaccinated to receive the vaccine, to reduce the risks of severe illness and, ultimately, any burden on the healthcare system.

While most respondents do not support a blanket measure making vaccination mandatory, some feel that such a measure could make sense for specific subpopulations. Most clearly, for healthcare workers and teachers (for as long as vaccines for children are not available). The panelists believe that one can reasonably balance the infringement on an individual’s right to choose, with the right of third persons to be protected. Naturally, any such measure needs to be legally sound and take into account medical exemptions.