The Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisi, signed this Sunday three new decrees related to the covid-19 pandemic, which include measures for booster vaccination, capacity in commercial establishments and travelers arriving on the island.
The first decree orders a booster vaccine mandate for employees of child care centers, gyms, beauty salons, beauty salons, barbershops, spas and casinos. This measure has immediate effect and the people to whom it applies must complete their vaccination cycle before March 15.
The second decree is regarding the capacity in closed places. A 75% capacity occupancy is maintained in places such as restaurants, fast food establishments, cafeterias and any establishment whose main function is the sale of prepared food, as well as in theaters and cinemas.
The government explained in a press release that it was also authorized to modify the capacity of people allowed for other places. “The capacity in amphitheaters, stadiums, coliseums, convention centers, community centers or activities that serve drinks or prepared meals is increased to 75%.
In addition, the authorities of Puerto Rico stressed that people will have to present proof of vaccination or a negative test for covid-19 carried out within a maximum of 48 hours before visiting the establishments. Also that the use of a mask will continue to be mandatory.
Regarding the interior spaces of massive events, the government reported that “the capacity limitation of the event venue will have to be complied with. It will also be required that all those over 5 years of age who attend present proof of vaccination, including the booster dose for people who are eligible or a negative covid-19 test carried out 48 hours before the event. The validity of this decree will enter into force on February 17, 2022 and will remain in force until March 31 of the same year.
The third decree applies to travelers who arrive in Puerto Rico. Through a press release, the authorities explained the process to be followed.
“Those who have the Vacu-ID that reflects that they were inoculated with the booster dose will be allowed to be exempt from filling out the required travel declaration.”
In turn, the government explained in which case people would have to fill out the Traveler’s Declaration. “For any adult with Vacu-ID who travels with a minor over two (2) years old, they must fill out the ‘Traveller Declaration, COVID-19 Alert’ or the ‘Travel Declaration Form, COVID-19 alert’ of the minor and both may use the Vacu-ID queue. This decree will enter into force on February 18, 2022 and will remain in force until March 31 of the same year,” reads part of the statement issued.