"To vaccinate or not to vaccinate, that is the question” – and for many Tianjin foreigners the answer is “yes”

"I learnt that Tianjin has started offering novel coronavirus vaccines to foreigners and I saw that some foreign friends have been vaccinated, so I came around to the idea of vaccinating," said Sonia Marcel Agonz Alezcu Billos, a teacher from Colombia when she received the vaccine at Tianjin TEDA Hospital in Binhai New Area, costal part of Tianjin municipality.

"The whole process is very smooth and convenient. The medical personnel here are very nice and friendly. I do appreciate it.”

The TEDA street committee has launched a pilot survey of foreign residents in the area in advance to keep everyone informed.

At the hospital, many foreigners receive their shots by appointment. Language volunteers are available for those who need help during the whole process. They make sure the foreigners are fully informed of the possible side effects and keep an eye out for any difficulties.

An English personal responsibility statement covering all risks associated with vaccination and a form verifying informed consent is provided and needs to be signed before vaccination.