Glenmeadow Requiring Staff to Get COVID-19 Vaccine by Nov. 1

LONGMEADOW — Glenmeadow announced it is requiring all staff, volunteers, and contractors currently working for its life-plan community to be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.

The timeline for meeting this requirement will be Nov. 1, or 60 days after full FDA approval of one of the vaccines, whichever is sooner.

Glenmeadow’s revision of its COVID vaccination requirements is consistent with the organization’s mission of providing premier services for older adults, nurturing mind, body, and spirit, according to Glenmeadow President and CEO Anne Thomas.

“As an organization that holds itself accountable for the well-being of all the people whose lives we touch, it is our responsibility to do everything possible to protect ourselves and those in our care,” she said, noting that nearly 80% of the 600,000-plus COVID deaths in the U.S. have been among people 65 and older. “The rate of COVID-19 infection is rising in all states, including Massachusetts. The new Delta variant is very dangerous, spreads rapidly, and is highly contagious. Current infection rates, and those being hospitalized, are overwhelmingly in unvaccinated people.”

Glenmeadow joins with other local, regional, and national organizations requiring their employees to become vaccinated. In January, February, and March, Glenmeadow partnered with CVS for three priority in-house vaccination clinics for residents and staff, and the nonprofit life-plan community provides employees with vaccination opportunities on paid time, including free transportation to a vaccination site.

Glenmeadow has also made it a priority to educate employees on the importance, effectiveness, and safety of the vaccines. Side effects for most are mild, but staff who receive the vaccine through Sept. 30 may be eligible for paid leave to recover from any condition related to vaccination.

“Beginning in March 2020 and throughout the pandemic, we have all worked together to keep everyone in this community safe,” Thomas said.

Glenmeadow has followed recommended protocols from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Public Health, and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs in an effort to prevent illness. Since vaccines have been available, every Glenmeadow resident and more than 70% of employees have become fully vaccinated.

“It is time now for the remaining unvaccinated to step up and do their part to protect residents, clients, and our fellow employees,” Thomas said.

Glenmeadow’s vaccination policy does allow limited exemptions. Pregnant employees may apply for a deferral, and staff with medical or sincerely held religious objections may apply for an exemption by Oct. 1. Those with approved exemptions or deferral status must wear a mask at all times when they are with other people, and will be subject to COVID testing.