Estonian parliament passes law changing school vaccination procedure
The Estonian parliament approved amendments to the Infectious Diseases Prevention and Control Act, simplifying school vaccinations and reducing bureaucracy.
On Wednesday, June 17, the Estonian parliament (Riigikogu) passed amendments to the Infectious Diseases Prevention and Control Act. The government-initiated law was supported by 51 MPs, with six voting against: Arvo Aller and Evelin Poolamets (EKRE), Henn Põlluaas and Priit Sibul (Isamaa), and independents Kalle Grünthal and Varro Vooglaid.
The adopted law modernizes terminology related to infectious diseases, defines a particularly dangerous infectious disease, and sets behavioral and responsibility requirements for crises related to the spread of infections.
A key change concerns school vaccinations. Previously, a school nurse needed written parental consent to administer vaccinations under the state immunization program. Now, parents must provide written notice if they wish to opt out. Vaccination remains voluntary, and parents who do not want their child vaccinated can still refuse.
The law abolishes the requirement for a medical certificate for food service workers. Sponsors noted that current certificates are often formal, may not reflect real conditions, and do not offer protection. Employers remain responsible for preventing the spread of pathogens and protecting risk groups in the workplace.
The law also aims to strengthen health protection in care homes. Infection control requirements will extend beyond healthcare institutions to other high-risk settings, including round-the-clock care facilities.
