MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The West Virginia University Staff Council has issued a statement encouraging staff members to get the coronavirus vaccine.
University leadership has received petitions and letters of support for a vaccine mandate from the West Virginia Assembly Faculty Assembly and WVU Student Government Association.
An April poll conducted on campus showed 48-percent of the campus community disagreed or strongly disagreed with the university effort to strongly encourage the vaccine.
The full statement:
As seen by our recent poll, a mandate is popular within a small majority of the staff population. However, based on comments there is also support for the vaccine in those who do not wish to see a mandate. Given this information, Classified Staff Council strongly encourages all Staff members to get a vaccine to both protect their own health and the health of our community. As the situation in our state becomes more dire, it is important to protect yourself now. If you have fears regarding the vaccine, please contact your Doctor as they can help you make the best choice for your own medical situation. Classified Staff Council will continue to support all Staff and help them navigate any new challenges that may arise as the pandemic continues.
WVU Staff Council 2021-2023
The West Virginia University coronavirus dashboard reports nearly 78 percent of students and 75-percent of faculty are fully vaccinated as of September 14.
The West Virginia Board of Governors meets Friday and will likely address the issue.