The Associated Press reported that Austria's parliament approved Thursday to enforce COVID-19 vaccination for adults beginning February 1, and this is the first mandate of its sort in Europe.

The mandate carries a maximum fine of 3,600 euros ($4,000) for those who fail to comply following a series of reminders.

The bill, which would apply to all Austrian residents aged 18 and older, was approved by lawmakers by 137 to 33. Pregnant women, those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and those who have recovered from the coronavirus in the preceding six months will be exempt.

Officials argue that the obligation is required since vaccination rates remain too low. They assert that this will prevent Austria's hospitals from becoming overburdened with COVID-19 patients.

Speaking in parliament Thursday afternoon, Health Minister Wolfgang Mueckstein described the action as a "big, and, for the first time, also lasting step" in Austria's fight against the epidemic.

Austria's government first announced plans for a universal vaccine mandate in November, concurrent with the imposition of a since-lifted lockdown. The initiative has been received with widespread opposition in Vienna.

When the mandate takes effect in February, authorities will write to each home informing them of the new rules, the Associated Press reported.

In mid-March, police officers will begin scrutinizing people's vaccination status during regular inspections; those who cannot present proof of vaccination will be requested in writing to do so and may face a fine of up to 600 euros ($685) if they do not.

Sebastian Kurz, Austria's former Chancellor, said in 2020 that a phone conversation from then-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prompted him to act to contain the coronavirus.

When the second wave of coronavirus hit Austria, Kurz contacted Netanyahu, and the two spoke.