Updates to policy covering flu and COVID-19 vaccinations

UC has updated its vaccination policy with interim revisions to be more flexible while still prioritizing public health and safety. The update creates a new category that will apply to COVID-19 and seasonal influenza (flu) vaccinations for some individuals this year.

What’s changing

UC is introducing a “Recommended” category for certain vaccines. If a vaccine is assigned to the recommended category, individuals covered by the policy may follow vaccination recommendations of the applicable public health authority or they may choose not to get vaccinated without formally opting out.

The seasonal influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccines are in the recommended category for some but not all employees. Health care locations, such as student health centers, hospitals, clinics, and associated administrative offices, have the option to require individuals to be up to date on flu vaccination or formally opt out. Your location can provide you with information about the flu vaccine program that applies to you.

Health care locations will implement their flu vaccination programs based on local needs and local public health authority guidance, with requirements that are set according to individuals’ roles. The annual compliance deadline for local opt-out programs may also change depending on local public health authority guidance.

Next steps

UC’s Policy on Vaccination Programs – With Interim Revisions has been updated with these changes and is effective immediately. If applicable law or public health orders impose more restrictive COVID-19 or flu vaccination requirements, the more restrictive requirements will apply.

All UC medical plans include coverage for COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at no cost to those covered by the plan, as long as you follow your plan’s guidelines.

A systemwide review of this policy will take place next year. If you have questions or concerns about these interim revisions in the meantime, please direct them to vaccinepolicycomments@ucop.edu.