BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. – Spectrum Health, which includes Spectrum Health Lakeland in St. Joseph, announced it is requiring all employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

All medical staff, students, team members, volunteers, and contractors are required to get the vaccine.

“As a mission-driven organization, we are here to improve health, inspire hope and save lives,” said Spectrum Health President & CEO, Tina Freese Decker. “We must do all we can to take care of each other and our community. Together, our actions will serve to save lives and shorten the impact of the pandemic – both clear benefits to the public good.”

The company cited that the health and safety of its team and the community, as well as a thorough review of scientific evidence, led to the decision.

Spectrum Health will require the COVID-19 vaccine within eight weeks of the FDA approving the first vaccine.

The company will consider exemptions as required by law.

Spectrum Health may act more quickly if it sees a risk to team members and public health based on data in the local communities.