Ahead of the delayed Tokyo 2020 Games, the International Olympic Committee has said that vaccines are part of a “toolbox” they are developing as part of their Covid-19 side effects, which also includes immigration methods, quarantine measures, testing, and PPE
Last updated: 26/01/21 5:43 pm
IOC President Thomas Bach believes the Tokyo 2020 Games will bring the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’
The International Olympic Committee will encourage athletes to get vaccines for coronavirus ahead of the delayed Tokyo 2020 Games.
However, the IOC has stressed that athletes should not be given priority about vaccinating vulnerable groups, nurses, medical doctors and everyone keeping societies safe.
It follows calls from Dr Michael Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organization on the health emergency program, who said Olympic athletes should not jump the queue.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s press conference, the IOC said vaccines were part of a “toolbox” they are developing as part of their Covid-19 side effects, which also -incorporates immigration procedures, quarantine measures, testing, and PPE.
The IOC statement reads: “When the vaccine is available to the general public, the IOC wants Olympic and Paralympic teams to be vaccinated because of their role as ambassadors for their NOCs and provide them with a place to play” to promote safe sport as a contributor to the health and well – being of individuals and communities “.
“The IOC will work with the NOCs to encourage their athletes, officials and stakeholders to get vaccinated in their home countries, in accordance with national immunization guidelines, before they travel to Japan.
“This is to contribute to the safe environment of the Games, but also out of respect for the people of Japan, who should be confident that everything is being done to protect not only the participants, but also on the people of Japan themselves. “
Vaccines form part of a ‘toolbox’ being developed by the IOC as part of their Covid-19 drugs
IOC president Thomas Bach discussed the issue with 206 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) last week.
The NOCs have been asked to engage with their governments regarding vaccinations, but Bach has said they will not be mandatory.
Bach said: “In all these negotiations and initiatives, the IOC has been guided by four principles: first, to hold the Olympic Games in a safe environment for all. Second, prioritize vaccination for vulnerable groups, nurses, medical doctors and everyone who keeps our societies safe.
“Thirdly, we encourage all Olympic and Paralympic participants who receive the vaccine to accept it, also as an act of loyalty by Japanese hosts and their partners. Fourth, no need vaccination. “
Olympics should not get an early vaccine, says WHO
Dr Michael Ryan said at a WHO news conference in Geneva: “Currently we are focusing with laser on solving our biggest problem of vaccinating health workers in all countries and allowing vulnerable people who die of this disease to be vaccinated. “
He added: “We now face a global crisis that requires frontline workers, the elderly and the most vulnerable to access vaccines first – that in no way determines. denying the desire or will of the Olympics and coming together and celebrating a global sporting event where all countries come together.
“What an amazing symbol these Games are of shared humanity, however we have to face the things that lie ahead now – there are not enough vaccines right now to even serve those most at risk. “
French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) president Denis Masseglia has said athletes who have not been vaccinated against a “very difficult” situation at the Tokyo Games this summer – which has been canceled last year.
He warned that they would oppose a “fortnight’s quarantine” and “have to test in the mornings and evenings”.
There is uncertainty as to whether the already delayed Olympic and Paralympic Games will go ahead with rising coronavirus levels worldwide and much of the greater Tokyo area having entered a situation crisis earlier this month.
Just a few days ago, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said he believes the 2020 Tokyo Games will bring the “light at the end of the tunnel” amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mr Bach also said the event was “fully supported” by Japanese officials after a report in the Times said the country’s government had “privately terminated” that the Olympics and Paralympics had to be postponed due to escalation. in coronavirus levels.
The Tokyo Delayed Olympics are expected to be held in the summer
Mr Bach’s comments come with a growing number, including former London 2012 boss Sir Keith Mills, after doubts were raised about whether the Games would take place, while athletes wanted clarity.
Japan has yet to start vaccinating its citizens, although they hope a majority of adults will have an injection by July, and say vaccinations will not be mandatory for Games visitors.
Olympic officials have kept themselves away from suggestions from IOC executive committee member Dick Pound that athletes could jump the queue so the Games could go ahead.
A mandatory anti-problem scheme would favor those countries with established vaccination programs over others who are unable to access these facilities and programs.
A number of athletes are becoming increasingly public with their concerns and demanding clarity from the IOC on how and how the Games will be held.
Sir Matthew Pinsent, the British Olympic quarterback, has called for the Tokyo Games to be pushed back to replace 2024 in the calendar – a comment that has been dismissed by officials.
Stef Reid, a double Paralympic silver medalist and world champion, wanted the continued profiteering to do nothing to help athletes in their preparations for the Games.
She tweeted: “This is annoying. If it’s true, make it official.”