A study by Germany’s Deutsche Bank predicts the COVID-19 outbreak may lead nations to create an “immunity passport” to try to ensure that travellers entering various countries are in a good state of health.
According to Sputnik News, Deutsche Bank expects tourism to be the last industry to return to normal and says people from countries which cannot prove that they are healthy, will most likely have to cancel their trips.
Alternatively, proof of good health could come in the form of an “immunity passport” – a secure, smartphone-based tool containing information about the user’s wellbeing.
If the technology becomes available quickly enough, these “immunity passports” could promote tourism and travel.
If not, researcher say the ban on travel could be replaced with mandatory periods of self-isolation upon arrival.
The study also predicts that “by June, workers within countries will have resumed their jobs, retail stores will be open, and restaurants functioning,” even if social distancing measures remain in place for some time.
Barron’s reports analysts also expect some countries to face several rounds of lockdowns.
Based on experience in Hubei, China, the researchers believe the USA and Germany may start to lift restrictions on 22 May. Italy’s first lift may come on 7 May, while Spain and France are looking at 18 May, with the UK set at 23 May.
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