The County of Renfrew is considering removing the COVID-19 vaccination policy for long-term care homes.
The County operates and oversees operations at Bonnechere Manor in Renfrew and Miramichi Lodge in Pembroke.
On Wednesday (FEbruary 15th, 2023), the health committee recommended that County Council rescind the vaccination by-law.
The current vaccination policy says all staff, essential caregivers, students and volunteers at long-term care homes are required to have three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and general visitors need two doses.
Director of long-term care Mike Blackmore says the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine was administered over one year ago.
Blackmore notes there is no current evidence to support that individuals with current bivalent COVID vaccinations are prevented from contracting and spreading COVID-19.
Chair of the health committee Michael Donohue says it’s becoming more and more clear that the connection between transmission rates and vaccination status has become diminished.
Donohue adds there is absolutely no question that vaccination does dramatically reduce severity of infections.
While the health committee is recommending that County Council remove the vaccination policy at long-term care homes, other infection prevention measures will continue to remain in place such as masking, active screening and daily use of rapid antigen tests.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
