Cape Fear Valley Health mandating COVID-19 vaccines for employees

Aug. 5—COVID-19 vaccines are now mandatory for all employees, physicians, students, vendors and volunteers, Cape Fear Valley Health announced Thursday morning.

The deadline for full compliance is Oct. 1.

"With the rising trend in positive COVID-19 cases locally and nationally, vaccinations remain our best defense against the pandemic," Cape Fear Valley Health CEO Michael Nagowski said in a news release. "The vaccine has proven to be safe and effective, and the data shows it reduces the severity of the virus and significantly lessens the risk of COVID-related hospitalizations for those who are exposed to the virus. The overwhelming body of scientific evidence supports our decision that mandatory vaccination is the right choice at this time."

Employees will not be required to use their vacation time to get their vaccine, Nagowski said.

Cape Fear Valley Health held several town hall meetings before this decision was made. Employees, physicians, students, vendors, and volunteers will be able to apply for exemptions for medical or religious reasons, the release said.

Health and education writer Ariana-Jasmine Castrellon can be reached at acastrellon@gannett.com or 910-486-3561.

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