With the state averaging more than 2,700 new COVID-19 cases daily, ICUs are filling up even as hospitals report staffing shortages.

Now, Dignity Health has announced it will require all employees to be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus by Nov. 1.

The order includes all physicians, volunteers and Advanced Practice Providers such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

Medical and religious exemptions will be allowed for those who qualify.

Dignity says requiring a coronavirus vaccination protects patients and staff, much like its flu vaccine requirement.

Although COVID-19 vaccines remain under emergency use authorization, they save lives and reduce spread, and Dr. Anthony Fauci has said he hopes for full U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval before the end of the month.