Updates to UC’s vaccination policy
January 6, 2026 •
Interim UCOP Chief Human Resources Officer Dianna Henderson sent the following message to all UCOP staff on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025:
Dear colleagues,
In an effort to provide greater flexibility while continuing to promote health and safety, UC has updated its vaccination policy in consultation with public health experts. The new interim revisions add a “recommended” category for certain vaccines, depending on your location and role. If a vaccine is in the recommended category for you, UC recommends that you follow California Department of Public Health or local public health authority guidance when deciding whether to receive it but does not require vaccination. You may choose not to get a vaccination in the recommended category without formally declining, or opting out of, the vaccine.
For UCOP employees, the seasonal influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccines are in the recommended category. All UC medical plans include coverage for COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at no cost to members who follow the plan’s guidelines.
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. The vaccine authority at each location is responsible for communicating the requirements that apply to those covered by the policy.
UC’s recommendations are informed by guidance from the California Department of Public Health and local public health authorities where UC facilities are located. Use the following links to find a county public health department near your location:
If applicable law or public health orders impose more restrictive COVID-19 or flu vaccination requirements in the future, more restrictive requirements will apply.
UC will evaluate the need for adjustments to its vaccination programs on an ongoing basis, and a systemwide review of the 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.
Thank you and take care during the cold and flu season.
Sincerely,
Dianna Henderson
Interim UCOP Chief Human Resources Officer
Tags: COVID-19 vaccine, flu vaccine, vaccine policy
