I recently tried to ascertain the vaccination status of several local dentists, their hygienists and staffs. They were unwilling to provide this vital information, citing privacy concerns. I then contacted the Pennsylvania Academy of General Dentistry to find out what its position is on this matter. I was shocked to learn that the academy has not taken a position advising vaccination of dentists.
This is a critical public health issue. Every unvaccinated person is a walking hot spot for this plague. To have any one of them working in the mouths of the public is insane.
The same caution applies to every health care worker: doctors, nurses, psychologists, counselors, chiropractors; in fact, anyone whose work involves face-to-face contact with the public. Personal privacy should never trump public health and safety.
Charles Henry
Greensburg