Gov. Newsom mandates vaccine for teachers, other school workers

After announcing a vaccine mandate for health care workers earlier in this month, Gov. Gavin Newsom has doubled down with a similar mandate for school employees. 

In the Wednesday announcement, Newsom said teachers and other employees will have to show proof of vaccination status or face weekly testing. The policy will take effect on August 12 2021, and schools must be in full compliance by October 15. Newsom said the move is intended to ensure a safe return to in-person learning. 

"We think this is the right thing to do, and we think this is a sustainable way to keeping our schools open," said Newsom. 

On Tuesday, Del Norte County Public Health reported 27 new cases of the virus, adding to the 72 cases that were reported over the weekend, including nine incarcerated cases. There are currently 191 active cases in the county, and 17 are hospitalized. 

Due to the surge of cases, Sutter Coast Hospital CEO Mitch Hanna announced the hospital would be activating their surge plan in a Tuesday press release. According to the release, the hospital will be temporarily postponing non-emergency surgeries and restricting visitor access to help manage the increase in COVID hospitalizations. 

"Current case levels are driving some of the highest surge levels to date, requiring emergency response efforts. It’s going to take all of us working together to reduce the spread of illness and slow down the rate of infection. We must be vigilant – wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, avoid large gatherings and get vaccinated. Vaccination against COVID-19 is still the most effective way to prevent serious illness and death from the virus."