RICHMOND, Va. 鈥� The Virginia Department of Health says only 17 people who were fully vaccinated against the coronavirus have died of the disease in the state since January.
The Virginian-Pilot reported Sunday that the new data indicates that unvaccinated Virginians make up more than 99% of this year’s COVID-related illnesses and fatalities. It鈥檚 a fact that public health officials hope will persuade people to get their shots.
State Health Commissioner Norman Oliver urged more Virginians to get vaccinated in a statement on Friday.
Public health officials say vaccines will be the most effective tool at ending the pandemic. It has killed more than 11,400 Virginians and infected at least half a million.
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