The Puerto Rico Department Of Health Implements Compulsory Vaccination For In-Person Educational Institutions

• Published date: 30 July 2021
• Subject Matter: Employment and HR, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Health & Safety, Employment and Workforce Wellbeing
• Law Firm: Littler Mendelson
• Author: Ms Irene Viera Matta and Anabel Rodríguez-Alonso

On July 22, 2021 the Puerto Rico Department of Health (PRDOH) issued Administrative Order No. 2021-509 (AO) providing that, in order to physically attend school, post-school educational institutions, or universities, personnel and students age 12 and older must be vaccinated against COVID-19. According to the PRDOH, the vaccination requirement for in-person school attendance will play an essential role in controlling the pandemic and providing a safer educational environment for students. The vaccine mandate will also assist in Puerto Rico's reaching herd immunity to help protect all sectors of the population.

Accordingly, evidence of vaccination will be required for all public or private school, educational center, or university teaching and non-teaching staff, including contractors who come in contact with school personnel. There are only two exceptions contemplated...