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Dear colleagues,
This is a message for those who have been kicking the can down the road, waiting for a time when you’re not as busy, waiting for more detailed information or assurances, waiting to see what those in your social circle do.
The time to get vaccinated for COVID-19 is now.
The virus continues to mutate, adapting to survive and becoming more dangerous to our community. Cases are surging in Maricopa County. I’ve been briefed on serious cases among our workforce. I don’t want to get another phone call. For those on the fence, it’s time to act.
While all three available COVID-19 vaccines are considered safe and effective, the FDA gave a new level of approval today to the Pfizer vaccine. This full approval affirms what public health experts have been saying and what studies have shown for months: the vaccine is safe and effective at preventing COVID-19 and especially at preventing hospitalizations and deaths from the virus, including the Delta variant.
These safe, effective vaccines are free and available at locations near you. Appointments are typically easy to come by.
As a county employee, you get paid time off to get vaccinated. The policy calls for one hour of paid time off per dose of vaccine.
County leadership has done everything we can to make it easy for you to make a choice that prioritizes your health.
Now it’s your turn to take the next step.
If it's vaccine facts you want, visit Maricopa.gov/TakeCare.
But I suspect many of you have the information and just need that final nudge.
Don’t let the nudge be a positive test. Don’t let the nudge be you or a loved one in the hospital.
Let this be the nudge. Your county leaders support you in prioritizing your health. I encourage you to schedule your vaccine appointment today.
Be well,
Joy
Policies to remember for appointed departments
- Employees who test positive for COVID-19 will continue to be eligible for 80 hours of paid time, regardless of vaccination status. If an employee tests positive a second time and has not used the full 80 hours, they may use the balance.
- Employees are allowed paid time off to get vaccinated. The policy calls for one hour of paid time off per dose of vaccine.
- Masks are required indoors in county facilities for all staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. This is based on recommendations by CDC, ADHS, and Maricopa County Public Health.
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