Newfoundland and Labrador have lowered mandatory COVID vaccination

When the vaccination policy was announced in October, Prime Minister Andrew Furey indicated that it would be reviewed six months after its implementation.

The measure took effect on December 17, 2021. This is possible under the provisions of the Provincial Health Protection and Promotion Act.

Proof of two doses of COVID-19 vaccine is required to work in the public service as well as to work in bars, restaurants and establishments that serve vulnerable populations.

Beginning June 1, public service employees will no longer need to be vaccinated against COVID.

The need to be vaccinated will also end on June 1 for workers in home care, assisted living, early childhood care, private clinics, private schools, post-secondary institutions, as well as paramedics and firefighters.

High vaccination rate

By the time the compulsory vaccination for these workers takes effect on December 17, the Deputy Prime Minister Siobhan Coady reported that only 32 public service employees refused to be vaccinated without a legitimate medical exemption.

Those suspended without pay for non -compliance with the policy will be able to return to work next Wednesday, according to a spokesman for the Treasury Board Secretariat.

In a joint statement from the Cabinet and the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Health and Community Services on Thursday, it said the vaccination requirement had not been extended. due to the current epidemiology in the province.

According to the latest data, as of Wednesday, there were 13 people with COVID-19 hospitalized in Newfoundland and Labrador, including two in intensive care.

In the province, only over 92% of residents aged 5 and above have been fully vaccinated against COVID.

The disease has claimed 182 lives there since the virus appeared.