Inova is committed providing clarity and ongoing education regarding the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine. We have a new video addressing vaccine questions related to pregnancy as well as a new highlight reel from our recent panel discussion with Inova experts. We have also established a Vaccine Ambassadors program where you can have a one-one discussion with an Inova clinician. Importantly, Inova has updated its masking guidelines. Read on for more details. You can find these resources and the latest news on our vaccine resource page here.


COVID-19 Educational Video #3: Vaccine Safety for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

This week's video focuses on questions and concerns about the vaccine for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Rasha Ebeid, MD, the Lead Hospitalist for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Inova Fairfax Hospital and the Medical Director of the Inova Cares Clinics for Women addresses COVID-19 vaccines and women’s health issues.  She speaks convincingly about why she a strong believer that women who are pregnant (or hoping to get pregnant) or lactating should receive the vaccine. Dr. Ebeid shares guidance from the American College of OB/GYN and the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine, the two leading organizations representing specialists in obstetric care. You can view her videohere.

Virtual Q&A Session Highlights Featuring Inova’s Panel of Experts

Additionally, we have created a ‘highlight’ reel of the recent virtual Q&A session where a panel featuring Inova physicians and leaders from HR and Team Member Health addressed some of our team members’ most pressing concerns. You can catch up on the highlights here.

Connect with an Inova Vaccine Ambassador

Would you like to discuss your questions or concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine one-on-one with a trusted team member?  Inova’s Trusted Vaccine Ambassadors can help.  These clinical team members understand the latest guidance and research regarding the importance and safety of the COVID-19 vaccines.

Send an email to vaccinequestions@inova.org if you want to be connected to a clinician who can help answer your questions. Please specify if you have preferences regarding language, faith, gender or clinical specialty when connecting with an Ambassador.

Also, if you are interested in joining this team as a Vaccine Ambassador to be a resource for team members, please send an email to the same address and someone will be in touch.


Updated Masking Guidance for all Inova facilities

Due to a recent increase in community spread of the COVID-19 virus in the regions we serve, masks are once again required in all Inova non-healthcare settings, regardless of vaccination status -- in addition to clinical settings. This requirement applies to in-person meetings as well. This update to our policy is aligned with our value of always prioritizing patient and team member safety. Those same values led us to mandating vaccination as a condition of employment.

Vaccination is the number one most effective way to prevent or reduce the severity of COVID-19, stem this pandemic and protect all of us. Masking is also recommended by the CDC in an effort to limit breakthrough infections and minimize transmission of new variants. The COVID-19 situation in our region is very dynamic and Inova continues to monitor all CDC and VDH guidance. Our vaccine resource page will always have the latest information.

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