UK on Alert Again with Over 4,000 New Cases... Vaccinations Extended to Undocumented Immigrants

'Coronavirus Variant' Warning Sign Erected in Bolton, UK
[Image Source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Seoyoung] As the number of COVID-19 cases rises again in the United Kingdom, vaccinations are expected to be administered to undocumented immigrants and others as well.

On the 28th (local time), the UK government announced 4,182 new COVID-19 cases and 10 additional deaths. This marks an increase from the previous day's 3,542 cases, surpassing 4,000 cases for the first time since April 1. The spread of the India-origin variant has been identified as the cause.

As a result, the extension of social distancing measures in the UK has become inevitable. The UK government had originally planned to lift social distancing rules from June 21, but experts have unanimously advised postponing the easing of restrictions due to the rising number of infections. Government officials also stated they will exercise caution in their judgment and will make a final decision on June 14.

Meanwhile, the UK government announced that anyone aged 30 and above will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccinations can be scheduled through the National Health Service (NHS) website or local general practitioners (GPs).

However, concerns have been raised that undocumented immigrants and migrants may fall through the cracks of vaccination efforts. Critics point out that immigrants not registered for these services or those fearing exposure of their illegal status have no way to get vaccinated. Most of these individuals live in poor conditions, often in multi-generational households sharing living spaces, making them vulnerable to virus spread.

In response, the Northwest London Clinical Commissioning Group, supported by the Westminster Borough of London, operated a "vaccination bus." Additionally, the China Information and Advice Centre (CIAC), which supports the Chinese community in the UK, guided the use of the bus in London’s Chinatown. Vaccinations were provided without requiring personal information such as addresses or NHS numbers, or identity verification procedures.

The CIAC stated, "Unauthorized migrants can also use this service. Since no identity or other information is required, please tell those around you to get vaccinated." On the day the bus operated, thousands of Chinese people flocked to Chinatown upon hearing the news, causing a crowd. This led to a situation where medical staff limited vaccination eligibility from those aged 30 and above to those aged 40 and above.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.