Vaccinated Quebecers and those who will soon be vaccinated will be able to receive, as of May 13, digital proof of vaccination in the form of a QR code; the usefulness and privileges remain to be clarified.
For now, this proof of vaccination, which will be emailed on Thursday, will not be considered a "vaccination passport."
It could be useful for those who have lost their paper proof of vaccination that is given during the vaccination or for certain travellers. For the rest, "we'll see," stated the national director of public health, Horacio Arruda.
Even if the debate has been ongoing for several months, Public Health is still not fixed on the various "ethical issues" involved in the vaccination passport.
Last week, Dr. Arruda showed little enthusiasm for such a pass, indicating that its use could be "marginal", due to the "perverse effects" associated with it.
The system, adopted among others by Denmark and Israel in order to be able to go to restaurants or participate in public events, is welcomed by certain Quebec restaurateurs, who would like to take advantage of it to reopen their dining rooms more quickly.
This QR code could be considered significant as the province prepares for the resumption of live shows and sporting events, such as the Canadiens' playoff games.
Vaccine passports and certificates are being touted around the world as a way for various industries to start returning to normal while minimizing the risk of spreading the coronavirus. Consumers in New York are already being required to use the passes at venues ranging from sports arenas and movie theaters to services like international travel.
Quebecers who are vaccinated will be able to request to receive this proof in the form of a QR code as of Thursday next week.
"What you want to do is a good analysis," said Dr. Arruda. "I think there may be some use. We're not saying no. [...] There are countries which have done it, which have had positive experiences, others which have had negative elements. "
"We will therefore come back to you shortly when we can discuss the use of this vaccine proof," said Health Minister Mr. Dubé.
More Fraud
Since the beginning of the pandemic, scams surrounding coronavirus testing, fake protective equipment and fake COVID-19 vaccines have circulated on the internet. Now experts are concerned about a rise in fake vaccine certificates.
