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Welia Health Earns Silver Tier Recognition in RespSafe Program

August 13, 2025  /   Press Releases  /   1-minute read

Welia Health is proud to announce that it has earned Silver Tier recognition in the Minnesota Department of Health’s (MDH) RespSafe program for the 2024–25 respiratory illness season. This recognition highlights Welia Health’s strong commitment to patient safety, staff wellness, and quality assurance during a challenging flu and COVID-19 season.

The RespSafe program, launched by MDH in 2024, encourages hospitals and long-term care facilities to implement strategies to protect patients and staff from respiratory illnesses. Recognition tiers are based on vaccination rates for both influenza and COVID-19, as well as participation in prevention strategies.

To achieve Silver Tier status, Welia Health:

  • Met the program’s 80% coverage goal for influenza vaccination among employees.
  • Implemented strategies to increase staff vaccination and promote a safe care environment.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff to protect patients, visitors, and each other,” said Justyna Holcombe, MA, BSN, RN, CIC, Welia Health Infection Preventionist. “While vaccination decisions are personal, our goal remains to make vaccines accessible, encourage informed choices, and implement best practices to minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses in our facilities.”

For more information about the RespSafe program, visit the Minnesota Department of Health website.

Media Contact: Taylor Anderson, Welia Health Marketing Coordinator, info@weliahealth.org or 320.225.3423.

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