California is leading the way in the fight against COVID-19.

The state is implementing a new vaccination mandate requiring all healthcare workers to be vaccinated against the virus, as cases of the Delta variant continue to rise across the country.

The issue comes a week after Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered healthcare workers to get vaccinated or have weekly COVID tests. Now the message is clear: get vaccinated.

Responses from local health authorities in the region have been overwhelmingly positive.

“It was a relief that we got clear direction for those working on the front lines on safety for themselves, safety for their patients and we know that is how we are ending this pandemic,” said Dr Edith Jones Poland, Primary Care Physician at Circé Healthcare.

The CDC encourages everyone to get vaccinated, but healthcare workers in particular play a critical role in preventing the spread of COVID.

“State public health officials have been able to track outbreaks of COVID-19 among unvaccinated healthcare workers, so we know it’s making a difference for healthcare workers, for people , their environment and, of course, for the patient, ”said Dr Poland. .

Dr Poland expressed support and pride in the state being the first to implement tougher measures, and said she hopes other state leaders follow suit.

“Having said that California, as usual, is leading the way,” Dr. Poland said. “(Our leaders) are ready to step in and do what the government is supposed to do, which is to protect the citizens of California.”

The vaccination mandate goes into effect on September 30 and will include employees of hospitals, nursing homes, doctors’ offices, clinics and other medical facilities.