URBANA, Ill. — The University of Illinois System is requiring all students, faculty, and staff to get a COVID-19 booster shot when they’re eligible to receive it.
The university encouraged everyone to get the booster just a few weeks ago, but circumstances have changed, U of I President Tim Killeen said in an email to students and staff at all the system’s campuses.
“There is now significant evidence that vaccinations plus boosters are effective at preventing infections from developing into serious illness,” said Killeen.
“Throughout the pandemic we have worked diligently to keep our universities and their surrounding communities safe. Now, in the face of this new variant, we must again act collectively to protect both the health and safety of our communities and the quality of the educational experience that makes the U of I System truly extraordinary,” Killeen also said.
News partner 25 News reports that the booster requirement will not impact those who already received medical and religious exemptions.
