In the wake of news coverage of some health care organizations calling for a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers, ADA President Daniel J. Klemmedson, D.D.S., M.D., issued an email to dentists to clarify the Association's position, ADA News reported. According to the communication, the ADA is "strongly" encouraging dental professionals to be vaccinated for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, but the Association is not calling for mandated vaccination. Dr. Klemmedson said ADA policy recommends vaccination in accord with CDC recommendations. The CDC currently doesn't recommend mandated COVID-19 vaccination for health care professionals. If the CDC changes its recommendation, the ADA will share this news with members to ensure they are following all applicable rules and regulations.

"As we continue to hear about rising infection rates due to the Delta variant, I want to repeat to you what I noted in my December 2020 message: Dentists are essential health care providers whose leadership, counsel, and example will go a long way in building vaccine confidence in our nation," Dr. Klemmedson said. "Let's do our part to move public health forward. If you haven't already been vaccinated, please get vaccinated and encourage your team members and patients to do the same."

The ADA continues to create COVID-19 resources that address members' concerns. For the latest information, visit ADA.org/virus.

To read the entire ADA News story:  ADA News (7/28)