The definition of fully vaccinated has also been clarified
New Brunswick's unvaccinated employees in the vulnerable sector may now return to workplaces starting April 11, according to a government announcement.
"Leave without pay for unvaccinated employees in vulnerable sectors ends on April 11. They are expected to report to work on that day," read the announcement.
It is one of the revised rules in the provincial government's vaccination policy for vulnerable sectors, including facilities of regional health authorities, Extra-Mural/Ambulance NB and corrections.
According to the announcement, these non-vaccinated employees may return to work on the condition that they comply to "all mitigation measures required by their employer" until they are fully vaccinated.
Meanwhile, the government also said the definition of a fully vaccinated individual will depend on the employers of the vulnerable sectors, who will base it on the Public Health guidance. The guidance currently recommends three doses for employees in the vulnerable sector before they are regarded as fully vaccinated, according to the provincial government.
Those who are in the sector and have not yet received their three doses will also be required to follow all mitigation measures required by their employer until they complete the minimum doses required based on public health guidance.
The government said operators of nursing homes and adult residential facilities licensed by Social Development will be required to implement policies that align with these guidelines.
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It comes after the government last week, March 28, started welcoming unvaccinated employees back to workplaces as part of an updated COVID-19 vaccination policy. This means that leave without pay for these unvaccinated workers in all other settings in parts I, II, III, IV have also ended.
The revised policy also covers vaccine mandates for hiring, where the jabs will no longer be a condition for employment with the New Brunswick public service.
"The amended vaccination policy also applies to volunteers, on-site vendors, suppliers and contractors," said the government.
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Staff shortages
The announcement of revised vaccination policies arrived at a time when New Brunswick's health-care facilities face staff shortages, according to a report from the CBC.
The head of the New Brunswick Medical Society said that even if vaccine requirements are already getting lifted, employees should still get fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
"Even though rules requiring vaccination for provincial employees may be relaxing, we strongly encourage all New Brunswickers, especially those who deal with patients and other vulnerable populations, to get fully vaccinated," said Dr. Mark MacMillan as quoted by CBC.
MacMillan previously urged the public to remain vigilant to "protect the health system."
"We ask that everyone continue to do what they can to mitigate the spread of the virus. The best means of avoiding serious outcomes if one does contract COVID-19 is vaccination, so we encourage all eligible individuals to make sure they are up to date with first, second and booster doses," said the official.