Updates to WSU vaccination requirements

Changes to vaccination requirements and dates

Earlier today, it was announced on WSU Insider and in an e-mail to all students that the deadline to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a request for exemption has been changed.

Students must provide proof that they have initiated or completed the vaccination process or must request an exemption by Sept. 10. Employees must also submit a vaccine declaration or request an exemption by Aug. 23. The change is in response to the ever-changing circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the spread of the Delta variant rising and with particularly high rates of spread in Benton and Franklin counties, taking steps now to mitigate the spread is prudent.

Processes for campus community members

Students must either submit proof of initiation or completion of a COVID-19 vaccination or request an exemption through the Cougar Health Services website.

Employees are required to declare their vaccination status or request an exemption via Workday. More information is available on Human Resource Services’ website.

Students, faculty and staff who work in healthcare or clinical settings in Washington state are subject to Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 21‑14. These individuals are not permitted to request a personal/philosophical exemption.

Face coverings

Individuals who do not provide proof of vaccination must wear a face mask when inside a WSU facility. Fully vaccinated Cougs are also encouraged to wear a face mask while indoors when the status of those around them is unknown.

After FDA approval of COVID-19 vaccine, personal exemptions no longer an option

As also indicated in WSU Insider, after any of the three currently approved vaccines receive full FDA approval, personal exemptions will no longer be an option. Exemptions for religious and medical reasons, however, will be allowed. Students will have 45 days following the approval date to provide proof of vaccination (or initiation of the vaccination) or file for a medical or religious exemption. Upon FDA approval, the updated process for filing a new medical or religious exemption will be provided.

COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective

COVID-19 vaccines remain highly effective at preventing severe disease, and breakthrough infections for COVID-19 vaccinated individuals remain uncommon. Local data indicates that more than 90% of new COVID-19 infections are among unvaccinated people. We encourage you to talk to your health care provider about your best options.

On-campus COVID-19 vaccine clinics beginning Aug. 18

Every Wednesday through end of September
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mobile medical unit in the Floyd Building parking lot
Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber will offer $50 gift cards to first 50 people who get vaccinated

As we have all learned amid this pandemic, things are fluid. We continue to thank you for your patience and understanding. We have an incredible WSU Tri-Cities Coug community.