Read which South American country made COVID-19 vaccine mandatory for all over 5 year of age

Ecuador has made the Covid-19 vaccine mandatory for the majority of its inhabitants, citing an increase in infections and the proliferation of variations such as Omicron as justifications.

There were enough pills to "immunise the whole population," according to the health ministry. Those who have a valid medical reason will be exempt.

Everyone over the age of five must be immunised. To date, 77.2 percent of those who are eligible have received two doses. A booster shot has also been given to almost 900,000 people.

Vaccines, according to the government, act as a "shield of protection" against the virus, preventing major sickness, hospitalizations, and deaths.

The judgement was made in relation with the country's constitution, which stipulates that the state must protect the right to health. Other countries considering a similar step include Austria and Germany.

Ecuador has already passed legislation requiring immunisation certificates in public areas such as restaurants, movies, theatres, and shopping malls.

It has also implemented travel restrictions to try to stem the spread of Omicron, a viral type that looks to be more contagious but milder than other strains.

The government has documented 33,600 Covid-related deaths since the outbreak began.