(WWJ) The University of Michigan is going all the way with a vaccine requirement on campus.
The school announced Friday that it will require all students, staff and faculty to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus this fall.
This applies to the Ann Arbor campus, University of Michigan hospital and both the Dearborn and Flint campuses as well.
The announcement comes as the rate of COVID-19 infections is again increasing across the country, the school says — particularly in states and sub-populations with the lowest vaccination rates and as the delta variant proves to be much more infectious.
The university says the vaccine requirement also applies to those working or learning remotely.
“Widespread vaccination is the primary and most effective tool that will bring the COVID-19 pandemic under control and it is the key to a vibrant and engaging academic year,” officials wrote in an email to the U-M community.
U-M will provide limited exemptions for legitimate medical and religious reasons.
“We’re making this announcement today to allow those who remain unvaccinated the time to begin their vaccination series in the month ahead,” the message continued. “While we will provide limited exemptions for medical and religious reasons, it is imperative that all members of our community are protected from this devastating virus.”
Those who are approved for an exemption will be required to complete mandatory weekly COVID-19 testing and must continue to wear masks indoors while on campus.
All other faculty, staff, and students must submit proof of full or partial vaccination no later than August 30.
This coms as many have already had their shots. As of July 30, U-M said roughly 81% of students and 65% of employees on the Ann Arbor campus, and 76% of Michigan Medicine employees already have reported their COVID-19 vaccinations.
The school notes that vaccines are free and available at most retail pharmacies and health care providers, and appointments remain available through Michigan Medicine, as well as the University Health Service.