By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – As the Delta variant spreads, Carle Health requires all employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Urbana-based hospital system announced its decision in a news release after receiving guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health, employees, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Like many community members, the majority of Carle Health team members have already made the decision to vaccinate, and we are grateful for their contribution toward ending this pandemic,” James C. Leonard, MD, president, and CEO of Carle Health, said. “The decision to request all Carle Health team members to get vaccinated was made carefully and follows our organization’s values and commitment to being a trusted health partner for the community.”

So far, 11,000 employees have already received the COVID-19 vaccine equaling about 70% of the health system.

“We see in our hospitals and clinics the significant impact the vaccine has on the spread of infection and the severity of disease,” Robert Healy, MD, chief medical quality officer, said. “As the country deals with mutations like the Delta variant and others, vaccination truly is the best way to keep more people from getting sick.”

Carle Health said ongoing and additional mitigation measures would be determined in the weeks ahead.

The health system did not disclose discipline for employees who do not follow the guidance.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].