WELLINGTON COUTNY – Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) is encouraging all employers across the region introduce COVID-19 vaccination policies.
In a Sept. 1 letter to businesses, associate medical officer of health Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum says such policies will “add a significant layer of protection when paired with other COVID-19 workplace health and safety measures,” such as screening, masking, remote work (when possible) and paid sick leave.
WDGPH is encouraging employers take this step to help protect not only their workers but the broader community “as we enter the fourth wave of the pandemic.”
“I am grateful for the many steps that you have taken to keep our community safe over the past 18 months of this pandemic,” Tenenbaum told employers in the letter.
“I recognize these sacrifices were and are serious challenges for your business.
“Like many residents of the region, I am so grateful to spend my time in a place where businesses put the health of our community first.”
WDGPH has recently expanded its own vaccination policy to require all staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
As seen in other jurisdictions, “vaccine policies can have a significant impact on vaccination rates,” Tenenbaum said.
He added, “Promoting vaccine uptake is important to help reduce COVID-19 outbreaks in workplaces and building confidence for a safer return to work.”
Individuals can download their proof of vaccination by visiting covid19.ontariohealth.ca.
Public health officials say more information and resources about how to create an organizational vaccine policy is available at wdgpublichealth.ca/workplaces.To speak to someone about how to help staff access vaccinations, contact 1-800- 265-7293 x7006.
For more information about upcoming vaccination clinics visit wdgpublichealth.ca/drop-ins.
