Switzerland Lifts AstraZeneca Ban for Art Basel 2021 Attendees
Art Basel 2021, scheduled for September 24-26 in Basel, faced turmoil after Switzerland initially barred attendees vaccinated with AstraZeneca from entering large events, citing insufficient protection against the Delta variant. The rule forced exhibitors to undergo molecular testing upon arrival, with positive cases quarantined in their hotels at their own expense. A group of exhibitors called for the fair's cancellation. However, the Swiss Federal Council has since sent a bill for consultation allowing entry to anyone vaccinated abroad with an EU-approved vaccine, including AstraZeneca. The fair recommends exhibitors and visitors obtain extra travel insurance for quarantine costs.
Key facts
- Art Basel 2021 takes place September 24-26 in Basel, Switzerland.
- Switzerland initially banned AstraZeneca-vaccinated individuals from large events.
- The ban was due to concerns over the Delta variant and vaccine efficacy.
- Exhibitors with AstraZeneca had to take a molecular test upon arrival in Basel.
- Positive cases could quarantine in their hotel at their own cost.
- A group of exhibitors demanded the fair's cancellation.
- The Swiss Federal Council proposed a bill allowing EU-approved vaccines.
- The new rule permits entry for all vaccinated with EU-approved vaccines.
Entities
Institutions
- Art Basel
- Swiss Federal Council
- European Union
Locations
- Basel
- Switzerland