Romanian Patriarchate, on the anti-COVID vaccination: “It is necessary to correctly inform the population about some aspects” – Essential

The Romanian Patriarchate affirms that, for the success of the anti-Covid 19 vaccination campaign, it is necessary to correctly inform the population about some aspects, such as the voluntary, free and safe nature of the act of vaccination, the fact that it is a right , and it is not an obligation.

In a press release, the Patriarchate states that it has been and continues to be in favor of vaccination, but constantly insists on the fundamental need for strict observance of ethical principles.

Romanian Patriarchate position:

• “For the success of the anti-Covid 19 vaccination campaign, it is necessary to correctly inform the population about some aspects, such as the voluntary, free and safe nature of the vaccination act, the fact that it is a right, not an obligation.
• As for the “safety of the vaccination law”, those who have the professional and moral authority to recommend an absolutely new and recently discovered vaccine are exclusively the specialists in the respective medical field. In this sense, the Romanian Patriarchate welcomes the good news of the vaccine that could reduce and stop the current pandemic, but the Church cannot pronounce itself on strictly medical issues. Even more so in the case of a recent vaccine that has not been used before and on which specialists in the field decide gradually or differently.
• The position of the Romanian Patriarchate, which values ​​medical science and its many benefits, has been and continues to be in favor of vaccination, but constantly emphasizing the essential need for strict observance of ethical principles: informed consent, clear description of benefits and risks , specific responsibility if the vaccination has adverse effects on the health of the vaccinated person.
• In conclusion, vaccination must be a responsible and fully informed prophylactic act recommended and accepted on the basis of clear and complete information provided by the competent authorities and correctly received by citizens. In this way, fear and hesitation will be overcome by trust and hope ”.