Israel, however, currently leads the world on per capita vaccinations, having inoculated 29 percent of its population with at least one dose.
Israel intends to have all its athletes due to compete at the Tokyo Olympics vaccinated against COVID-19 by May, its National Olympic Committee said on Wednesday, amid global debate over whether athletes should be given priority access in the rollout.
Global coronavirus cases surpassed 100 million on Wednesday, according to a Reuters tally, as countries around the world struggle with new virus variants and vaccine shortfalls.
Israel, however, currently leads the world on per capita vaccinations, having inoculated 29 percent of its population with at least one dose.
“As part of the Israel vaccination for corona procedure already 50 percent of all the Israel Olympic athletes delegation to Tokyo have been vaccinated,” a Committee spokeswoman told Reuters in an email.
“By the end of May 2021, all… will be completely vaccinated against the coronavirus.”
The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) said some athletes have resisted inoculation as many raised questions about their performances being affected as a result.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has said that although participants will be encouraged to get vaccinated, it will not be mandatory.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe has said that he was against the concept of compulsory vaccinations and did not like the idea of athletes taking priority ahead of vulnerable people or frontline workers.
Article: Israel to vaccinate all athletes for Tokyo Games by May