Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich ‘expresses regret’ at not getting coronavirus vaccine after contracting disease
Posted Monday, December 13, 2021 by Thesun.co.uk
JOSHUA KIMMICH has ‘expressed regret’ after refusing to get the coronavirus vaccine - and then catching the disease.
The Bayern Munich star told German TV he will now get the jab after his earlier reluctance put him at the centre of a debate on vaccine hesitancy.
Bayern star Joshua Kimmich has been ruled out until the New Year
Kimmich's decision comes after he tested positive for the virus last month.
He said he lost his senses of taste and smell while he was ill and won't play until next month because of water deposits in his lungs following the infection.
Kimmich told ZDF: “Broadly, it was just difficult for me to deal with my fears and concerns, and that's why I remained undecided for so long.”
The 26-year-old star revealed back in October he was reluctant to get the shot as he voiced concerns over safety.
He didn’t rule out getting jabbed in future but insisted his regular testing regime was enough to keep him safe.
He said at the time: "I have concerns about the lack of long-term studies. I am of course aware of my responsibility.
"I follow all hygiene measures and get tested every two to three days. Everyone should make the decision for themselves."
His comments caused concern among public health experts at a time when vaccine take-up in Germany had slowed.
Kimmich said on Sunday he had previously been hoping to avoid the coronavirus through measures such as social distancing and testing.
But he had then booked a vaccine appointment shortly before his illness took hold.
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