Can my employer demand that I get the coronavirus vaccine?

LYNCHBURG, Va. – As COVID-19 vaccinations continue, people still have many questions, such as, “Can my employer demand that I receive the COVID-19 vaccine?”

The short answer is yes.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has yet to clarify, according to a Lynchburg-based employment attorney.

However, if it’s similar to the flu vaccine, employers can get you vaccinated.

However, your employer should arrange accommodation if you cannot be vaccinated due to health or religious exemptions.

“[Exempted employees] should probably either wear a mask while working, stay away from certain people, or have certain limitations. There are some alternatives, ”said John Falcone of Petty, Livingston, Dawson and Richards Law.

During this first phase, mainly health workers receive the vaccine.

Falcone said most healthcare employers already have a vaccination requirement.