Mary Washington Hospital is the first healthcare provider in our region to force its employees and volunteers to get a coronavirus vaccine.
Employees, medical staff, and volunteers at the Fredericksburg and Stafford campuses must be vaccinated by October 31, the hospital announced, saying the vaccines are safe and effective at preventing the spread of the coronavirus.
- “We have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment for our Associates, medical staff, and volunteers while protecting our patients from harm,” says Mike McDermott, Mary Washington Healthcare CEO, in a press release.
- The hospital also has a policy requiring workers to get a flu vaccination each year.
- Late last year, the FDA granted the coronavirus vaccination emergency authorization, which is considered an experimental treatment.
The Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association backed up the decision and issued its own statement supporting forced vaccinations for healthcare workers in the state.
- PLN is interested in speaking with affected healthcare workers, so please email us.
Those who work at other hospitals in our region, including Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (Woodbridge) and UVA Prince William (Manassas) and Haymarket medical centers, are not forced to get the jab.
- “We strongly encourage our team members as well as all community members who are eligible and able to get vaccinated,” said Sentara spokeswoman Susan Bahorich. “Sentara Healthcare will continue to do its part in educating and vaccinating our employees and the communities we serve. Sentara continues to follow all safety protocols, including masking in clinical settings, to keep our staff and patients safe.”
Coronavirus cases are on the rise in Virginia. However, hospitalizations and deaths have not spiked, according to the most recent information from the Virginia Department of Health.
- The state’s coronavirus dashboard was not working properly at the time of this post, so we’ll update this post with the latest numbers as soon as the dashboard is working again.
Federal employees are also being forced to get a vaccination, which prompted lawmakers to weigh in on the matter.
- “The only way to end this pandemic is for people to continue to get vaccinated. Federal employees serve on the frontlines of this pandemic, and we must ensure their safety and the safety of those they serve,” penned Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Fairfax, Prince William)
- “Although I have personally been vaccinated and regularly encourage those I represent to get vaccinated as well, I fundamentally disagree with forcibly injecting America’s public servants. Our government was founded to secure the individual liberties of all. We should instead continue educating the public that the COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective,” said Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Prince William, Stafford)
In addition to calling for the forced vaccination of federal employees, President Biden has called to add the coronavirus vaccination to a list of other required jabs for U.S. military service members, called on people to vaccinate more children and to offer more cash (up to $100 per person) to get the vaccination.
The president is expected to address the nation today on more mitigation efforts underway to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Author
Recent Stories
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.Â
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
