Good question. According to Manitoba public health protocols, there are 2 ways Manitobans can demonstrate proof of their COVID-19 immunization – the Manitoba Immunization Card issued by the province or the Pan-Canadian Proof of Vaccination Credential issued by the federal government. Don’t ask for anything more than this.
If an applicant says he/she has an exemption, ask for a description of the exemption and consider requesting verification if you’re skeptical. Verification should be in the form of a medical note from an MD or certified healthcare professional. Remember that personal beliefs and feelings about the vaccine aren’t grounds for an exemption.
I’m not an expert, but I don’t know of any religions that the vaccine would violate. They may exist, I just don’t know what they are. So, if an applicant claims to have a religious exemption, I’d at least consider asking for an explanation and maybe verification from a trustworthy source like a religious leader or at least an authoritative citation.
To repeat, DON’T request any further medical info about the applicant or his/her health or medical condition. Just vaccine status. Hope that helps. Glenn
