HOUSTON, Texas. – The border with Mexico should be completely reopened, and people on both sides should have easier and expanded access to vaccines in the US, according to a new report from Rice University.
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“Obviously, both governments sought to balance commercial and economic concerns with public health concerns, but the system never regained balance to avoid all non-essential travel rather than simply restricting Mexican citizens and residents the use of land ports of entry, ”he mentioned.
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To slow the spread of the delta variant of the coronavirus and to reactivate the economy and social activity of the region, argues Payán, Mexicans in the region should be encouraged and given facilities to get vaccinated on the US side and bring proof of it home.
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“It is time to allow health services in US border cities and towns to also serve all border residents, regardless of nationality,” said Payan.
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At the same time, it recommended that vaccines must be available for health services on the Mexican side of the border, aimed at those who do not have a passport or visa and cannot enter the United States.
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Around 7.5 million people live on the Mexican border and it is estimated that the same number lives on the US side of the border, giving a total of 15 million.
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“Given that the next few months are key to understanding the evolution of the pandemic, given the new dangerous strains of coronavirus like the delta variant, both governments should work together to prepare the border for a new normal, restoring travel for those who can show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test; expand vaccination rates across the border in the short term; and expand contactless border technology in the long term, “commented the researcher.
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Payan added that these measures can make the border more efficient, prosperous and secure, and especially healthier.
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