Idaho Hospitals Overwhelmed by Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccine

The mandate of the COVID-19 vaccine in Idaho has hospitals and health care providers overwhelmed. Its impact on Idahoans is particularly troubling, because the CDC’s guidelines on how to cover up and protect oneself from exposure aren’t enough to convince the majority of unvaccinated individuals. Moreover, the effectiveness of vaccination has not been fully vetted, and Idaho’s limited resources make it difficult to reach everyone.

Idahos hospitals are overwhelmed by COVID-19 vaccine mandate

Health care leaders in Idaho are urging the public to get vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Although the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine has increased in the past six weeks, it is still not enough to provide widespread protection. The state has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country.

CDC guidelines on masking aren’t enough to sway most unvaccinated people

The CDC has updated its guidelines on masking for people who have been fully vaccinated against the disease. Although they still recommend wearing a mask indoors in areas with high transmission rates, they no longer require people who are fully vaccinated to wear one. This allows fully vaccinated people to be more flexible about what they do and where they go.

Vaccins aren’t fully vetted for safety and efficacy

In order to gain full FDA approval, vaccines must undergo extensive testing, including human and laboratory trials. Researchers also use computers to predict how the vaccine will interact with the human immune system. After the vaccine has passed these tests, manufacturers can begin clinical trials for the vaccine in humans.

Lack of resources

As Idaho hospitals struggle to deal with a spike in coronavirus cases, doctors must reach out to regional hospitals in neighboring states for help. According to the Idaho Department of Health and Wellness, hospitals are overcrowded and lack the resources to adequately treat patients. In an effort to limit the number of people who must be admitted for treatment, they’re rationing patients and expanding crisis standards of care. The expanded crisis standards of care will help hospitals determine which patients can receive medical treatment based on need.

Vaccin shortages

Vaccine shortages are a major problem for Idaho hospitals. As of last week, only three of the 50 members of the Idaho Hospital Association were mandating vaccinations for staff. Two others have temporarily suspended their requirements, citing hospital crises.