Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday discussed the latest on the COVID-19 Delta variant and explained a new testing and vaccine program at state-run health care facilities.
“We are back into a period of time where a whole lot of things are moving – in the public sector, at the federal level – and we are learning more about the Delta variant,” Beshear said. “The Delta variant is spreading like wildfire. This variant is spreading faster than anything we have seen. If you’re unvaccinated, you are at significant risk.”
Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander, who joined Beshear, explained that universal masking will be required in all state-run healthcare facilities, including veterans nursing homes, effective Tuesday.
In addition, following the recommendation of the Long-Term Care Task Force, the cabinet will require all contractors and state employees working in these state-operated facilities be fully vaccinated by October 1, unless there is a religious or medical reason they cannot be vaccinated.
If any of the staff in these facilities is unvaccinated, they will be tested at least twice weekly for their safety and the safety of the Kentuckians they serve.
“Despite all of our efforts, this virus has claimed lives in our facilities, just as it has in facilities across America, and it threatens to do so again,” Friedlander said. “Increasing the vaccination rate and/or testing rates for staff is a critical next step to ensure that we defeat this COVID variant and provide the best protection possible for the people who receive care in our facilities.”
The latest move comes after Beshear announced last week new COVID-19 precautions based on updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The governor required all employees and visitors at state office buildings, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings.
Many businesses and organizations have followed by increasing indoor masking, including Ford Motor Co. in Louisville.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
