Medical groups call for mandatory COVID-19 vaccination among health workers

American Medical Association says children, immunocompromised are vulnerable.

The American Medical Association and dozens of medical groups on Monday called for the mandatory COVID-19 vaccination of health workers in the U.S.

“This is the logical fulfillment of the ethical commitment of all health care workers to put patients as well as residents of long-term care facilities first and take all steps necessary to ensure their health and well-being,” the medical organizations said in an open letter.

They said many health care facilities require immunization for influenza, hepatitis B and pertussis to protect the vulnerable.

“Unfortunately, many health care and long-term care personnel remain unvaccinated.

As we move towards full [Food and Drug Administration] approval of the currently available vaccines, all health care workers should get vaccinated for their own health, and to protect their colleagues, families, residents of long-term care facilities and patients.”.

Overseas, French lawmakers passed a law that requires health workers to get vaccinated and requires a “health pass” — proof of vaccination or a negative test — to gain entry into certain venues

Also, “while we recognize some workers cannot be vaccinated because of identified medical reasons and should be exempted from a mandate, they constitute a small minority of all workers,” the letter said