[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 213 (Thursday, December 9, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H7618]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  COVID-19 VACCINATIONS ARE IMPORTANT

  (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today regarding the ongoing threat 
posed by COVID-19.
  After 22 months of this pandemic, we cannot be complacent. In order 
to prevent further spread of the virus, either someone has to die, 
which I don't consider a very good alternative, or everybody else who 
isn't vaccinated ought to get their vaccines. By doing so, you prevent 
more suffering and death.
  In Ohio, COVID-19 is ripping across the State. Our emergency rooms 
are full of patients, and our ICU staffs are overworked. Ninety-five 
percent of COVID hospitalizations are among unvaccinated individuals--
95 percent. This is costing our healthcare system billions of dollars 
and wear and tear on all of our medical professionals.
  However, only 61 percent of Ohio residents have received their first 
dose. That means the majority aren't pulling with the crew.
  I urge all of us to think about the safety of our family, our 
friends, and our neighbors and do what we must to assist the well-being 
of those who are working overtime now for almost 2 years in our 
healthcare facilities. They are serving on the front lines.
  We all have a duty to be patriotic, and that means saving lives, not 
taking them, and making sure that you get your vaccine.

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