Ohio State requiring all students, faculty and staff to get COVID 19 vaccine

Ohio State University Holds Staggered Move-In To Enable Distancing As Students Return To Campus COLUMBUS, OH - AUGUST 13: A lone person makes their way through the 'Oval' at Ohio State University, a part of campus which, during the school year, is popular with students and faculty of the university, on August 13, 2020 in Columbus, Ohio. Incoming students living in the campus dormitories began moving in on the OSU campus on Aug. 12. All students moving into the dormitories were required to schedule a time to move in gradually with only 8 students permitted to move into a building in the same hour as an attempt to prevent spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) among OSU students. (Photo by Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images)

By WHIO Staff

COLUMBUS — The Ohio State University has announced it will require all students, staff and faculty to get the COVID-19 vaccine by October.

“With the rising prevalence of the more transmissible Delta variant fueling a resurgence of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Ohio State is focused on enhancing the health and safety of our community,” Ohio State said in an announcement. “The deadline for all Ohio State students, faculty and staff to have at least a first dose is Friday, October 15, 2021. For people receiving a two-dose vaccine, the second dose must be received by November 15, 2021.”

Ohio State becomes the first university in the state to require the vaccine for students, staff and faculty.

The university said it is taking the step, because vaccines are the safest and most effective form of protection against COVID-19.

“Scientists have learned a significant amount about the Delta variant, and this research underscores why being vaccinated is critical to combating COVID-19,” Ohio State said. “This variant is particularly effective in attaching to our cells – which means it is that much more effective at gaining entry into our bodies and making us sick.”

A spokesman for Wright State University said the university doesn’t plan on implementing any vaccine requirements at this time.

A spokeswoman for Sinclair College said it is not planning on changing any of its policies and is not requiring any proof of vaccination.

News Center 7 is working to find out whether the University of Dayton, Miami or other local universities will follow Ohio State’s decision.