A new law will be effective in Austria this week making COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for anyone over 18 years of age. 

Several countries have made it compulsory for the elderly or medical personnel to get vaccinated against COVID, but Austria is the first country in Europe to adopt such extensive measures. The government of Austria says that the law is needed to prevent lockdowns. Karoline Edtstadler, minister for the EU and Constitution, said that the government is aware that this is a strong step and a hard one. However, it is necessary. She added that the vaccine mandate will expire in January 2024, and could even be ended earlier if the pandemic permits. The law comes into effect on February 3. Authorities will start checking peoples vaccination status after mid-March. People refusing to get vaccinated will face fines from anywhere between €600 (£500; $670) and €3,600. Exceptions will be applicable for people who cannot get vaccinated due to medical reasons or those who are pregnant… (BBC, February 1, 2022)