UC Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement and Recommendations

Flu & COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements and Recommendations

UC Berkeley Influenza/COVID Vaccine Requirements and Recommendations

as of 9.22.26

UC Berkeley University Health Services aligns with the California Department of Health (CDPH)/ West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) (link is external) in strongly recommending all members of the UC Berkeley community protect themselves and others by receiving recommended vaccines.  Vaccines are safe, work well, and are one of the best ways to protect against respiratory viruses.

Recent changes in national vaccine guidelines, along with evolving UCOP Policy, have caused confusion on who should get vaccines and when.  University Health Services follows the requirements and recommendations of local and state authorities and closely monitors local epidemiology to ensure additional guidance is shared when applicable.

The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) recommendations below are informed by trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) immunization schedule for children and teens, and the American Academy of Family Physicians Immunization Schedule for adults >19 years of age.

2026-27 Influenza (“Flu”)**

2026-27 SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

General Students/ Faculty/ Staff* 

WCHA recommendation: Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older 

WCHA recommendation: Adolescents and adults should receive one dose of COVID-19 vaccine if they: 

  • Choose to reduce risk of severe illness

  • Have risk factors for severe illness

  • Are in close contact with others with risk factors

*Healthcare

Must receive or affirmatively decline by Nov 1 each year***

Recommended to follow CDPH, OSHA, and local Public Health Guidance

*Childcare

Must receive or affirmatively decline by Nov 1 each year 

Recommended.  

*Specific roles may determine additional requirements; consult with your supervisor/OHC.

**Requirements apply during winter respiratory virus season (November 1 to March 31) and other periods of moderate or high respiratory virus circulation based on local or regional surveillance

***Or 2 weeks after the start date, if starting between Nov 1 and March 31.

References

Student Vaccines

  • COVID-19 vaccines costs
    • Covered for students with SHIP
    • Students without SHIP pay the full price of the vaccine (Spikevax is $280)
      • Students can get a receipt to submit a request for reimbursement through their insurance carrier.
  • Students can also check vaccines.gov for vaccine resources outside of UHS.
  • Faculty and staff should check with their health care provider for Flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

COVID-19 Vaccine Timing 

Wait at least 2 months after the prior dose of any brand

FAQ: Should people get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they recently had a COVID-19 infection?

Yes. Getting a COVID-19 vaccination is a safer and more dependable way to build immunity to COVID-19. The vaccine improves the chances of avoiding the worst outcomes of the virus such as severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Studies have shown that the vaccine can reduce the risk of long COVID and reduces the severity of symptoms if a COVID-19 infection does occur. Following infection, people can receive a COVID-19 vaccine or booster dose when there are no more symptoms, generally about 10 days, or they can choose to delay by three months. 

COVID Vaccine Clinic Info

Flu Shot Clinics at UHS

California's Immunization Information System

To get a copy of your vaccine records.