The University of Tennessee will now require all students and employees to get a flu shot. And if and when one is developed, a COVID-19 vaccine will be required, too.
The requirement was approved by the UT Board of Trustees Friday in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on UT’s campuses.
The Trustees approved the new requirements as an emergency rule, but it will eventually become a permanent requirement, UT System President Randy Boyd said.
Students with medical or religious exemptions are not required to get the vaccines, as well as students who only take online classes, Boyd said.
Boyd noted that there may be resistance to the rule, but UT officials believe it is best for students.
The university did not previously require the flu shot for students or employees. Flu shots for employees are covered under the university’s health insurance, Boyd said.