University of Washington to require COVID-19 vaccinations

SEATTLE (AP) — The University of Washington will require all students to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before fall quarter begins.

University President Ana Mari Cauce made the announcement Monday.

“Widespread vaccination is the only real way we can put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us and return to a more normal way of living, learning and working,” she said.

Students will need to verify they have been vaccinated before the fall quarter begins, Cauce said. The university will provide access to vaccinations on campus, but Cauce said students should get vaccinated as soon as possible.

She said decisions about vaccine requirements for faculty, academic personnel and staff will be made after additional consultation with the state and others.

Washington State University said last week it will require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations this fall for students and employees. Seattle University and Pacific Lutheran University also have mandated vaccines for students.

Dozens of other colleges nationwide have announced COVID-19 vaccine policies.