The literally translated Swiss phrase ‘the fastest is the quicker’ will be soon the basis of the vaccination drive.
It basically means ‘first come first served’ in this context.
Many cantons will opening up vaccinations to all age groups from over 16 once the over 50s have been jabbed. That could be from the week after next.
Although the advice from the Federal Health Office is that older people should be vaccinated first, the cantons are free to adopt their own policies.
But the health minister, Alain Berset, seemed to give his support for the move. He says provided those at risk have had at least one dose – then there’s no reason not to open up the drive to everyone.
The vaccination rate is now at the fastest it’s ever been. Almost 50,000 are being vaccinated every day, that’s a rise of 20% from last week. 10% of the population are now fully vaccinated with both jabs.
The Federal Council says it will not take any immediate retaliatory measures against the United States following the Trump Administration’s decision hit Switzerland with a 31% tax on exports.
In a hard-hitting editorial in the Blick newspaper this morning – it calls Trump an ‘angry old man’ - the paper says the Federal Council has to face the issue of world trade with clarity and courage – but admits it has a tough job ahead.
A Geneva court has thrown out an appeal against the new vehicle tax levied by Geneva which caused shock and surprise at the beginning of the year when many saw their tax bills soar.
US president Donald Trump unveiled a series of tariffs against countries around the world. He says the United States has been ‘looted, robbed and raped’ by friends and foes alike.