Across Ohio, we are seeing the highest numbers of COVID-19 hospitalizations since the start of the pandemic. The current volume of cases is creating a severe strain on our hospitals and health care work force. Our respective hospitals have taken the unfortunate step of postponing non-essential surgeries that require an inpatient bed and the Ohio National Guard is helping us staff our facilities due to employees being out sick.
The Healthy State Alliance needs community support now more than ever. Through our unique collaborative partnership, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Mercy Health, urge our communities to join forces with us and do their part to keep our communities safe and the residents of Ohio healthy. We are deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of the residents of Ohio and we need your support in the following ways:
- Get your COVID-19 vaccine – the vaccine is safe, effective and how we will move beyond this pandemic together.
- If you are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster, get a booster dose.
- When indoors in public spaces within 6 feet of others, wear a well-fitting facemask regardless of your vaccination status.
- If you experience COVID-19 symptoms, get tested and follow CDC guidelines for self-isolation.
If you have friends and family members who have not been vaccinated, please encourage them to access the scientific facts about vaccine safety so they can make informed decisions about getting vaccinated.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together, across Ohio, to bring an end to this pandemic.
Sincerely,
Wael Haidar, MD
Chief Clinical Officer, Bon Secours Mercy Health
Andrew Thomas, MD
Chief Clinical Officer, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center