The Medigen COVID-19 vaccine is not recognized by Japan, complicating travel plans to the country by those who have received it.
The Central Epidemic Command Center has confirmed reports that Medigen is willing to pay for vaccine recipients’ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which Japan requires from those who have not received a recognized vaccine. This would set people’s minds at rest, restore the drugmaker’s reputation and fulfill the public’s expectations.
To enable Medigen recipients to travel to Japan without taking a PCR test in advance, the government allows them to receive three doses of another, internationally recognized vaccine.
As reasonable as this might seem, it is a risky solution, as people would receive up to six doses in total, which is obviously far from ideal. Nobody can be sure whether there would be any repercussions.
If it turns out that there are adverse effects of doubling up vaccinations, who should be held accountable? No one would want to take responsibility.
Many Taiwanese who have received three Medigen doses are genuinely supportive of the drugmaker. They were ridiculed, but they did not waver. Regardless of whether the Medigen vaccine would be recognized by foreign countries, they did not care.
Even though they now have limited options to travel, they are not resentful of Medigen. They support Taiwan and are proud that a local company developed a COVID-19 vaccine. They should be applauded.
If Medigen covers their PCR test fees to recognize their trust in the company, it would be a moving story worth telling.
BUSINESS INCENTIVES
It would also be hugely beneficial to Medigen’s image. Business is business, and companies need to make money. Even so, Medigen would benefit from paying for the PCR tests.
First, Medigen would be given nationwide coverage, which would be “free” advertising. Second, it would restore Medigen’s reputation and win the trust of more people.
“Business reputation is above everything,” an official said when asked about insurance companies that have incurred great losses over COVID-19 insurance policies.
Compared with those losses, the costs of PCR tests would be negligible for Medigen.
If Medigen covers the testing fees, opposition parties might stop bad-mouthing the drugmaker. This would be of great help to the government and its officials who have supported Medigen. In turn, it would be advantageous for the drugmaker’s business development.
RECOGNIZING SUPPORT
Many of my friends have received the Medigen vaccine. They did so without hesitation, and their reason was simple: They love Taiwan, and they wish to contribute to the nation’s vaccine industry.
Although they might be unable to travel to Japan for now, many have remained faithful and are unfazed by the inconvenience. Nor have they asked for compensation from Medigen. Medigen should therefore cherish their support and appreciation, and act accordingly.
The financial losses are temporary, whereas a corporation’s reputation and people’s trust can go far.
Medigen will hopefully deal with the issue with sincerity and courage, and be determined to compensate recipients of the vaccine. Medigen should take the responsibility to pay for the PCR tests for their supporters who plan to visit Japan. It should announce this plan as soon as possible.
Tsai Jr-keng is a retired elementary-school principal.
Translated by Liu Yi-hung
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