dix said there are about 49,000 affected workers in the health-care system. about 79 per cent of british columbians overall are doubly vaccinated, meaning about 6,000 health-care workers remain unvaccinated assuming the same proportions apply.
but dix estimated the percentage of vaccinated health-care workers is “significantly higher” than the general population because they know the risks of not being vaccinated.
despite fears that health-care delivery will be further strapped by a loss of all or some of those workers, dix said there is no question they will need to be immunized “given the seriousness of covid-19” on the health-care system.
he said outbreaks at health facilities sent many sick or affected staff home, “all of which had a profound effect on the delivery of care.”
“we’ve seen this for months and months and months,” he said. “so the reason we’re taking this step is to support and protect the health-care system and all of those in it. health-care workers know absolutely the importance of immunization. it’s essential.”
but, he said, “we’re going to have to prepare for circumstances should people leave certain positions.”
he said the province will work with the bcnu, the hospital employees’ union, lab employees, doctors, paramedics and midwives to ensure they are all vaccinated. he wouldn’t reveal any further details.