Israel requires COVID-19 vaccine for recovered patients to keep Green Pass

Sept. 27 (UPI) -- The Israeli health ministry announced on Monday that those who have recovered from COVID-19 must get a single shot of a vaccine to receive a Green Pass, a document that allows them to attend events and enter businesses.

The pass provides proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test.

The new rule, however, will require those who have recovered from the disease to get their first vaccine dose to keep the Green Pass current.

The health ministry said the rule takes effect Oct. 3, the same day Israelis could have their Green Pass revoked for not getting a booster six months after their second vaccine dose.

The change is expected to affect roughly 1.2 million Israelis who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

The Green Pass has become a necessity for many Israelis. It is required to enter schools, a wide range of businesses and to perform jobs.

Not having a Green Pass is considered an unexcused absence for most jobs and could affect employment.