ATLANTA — Emory Healthcare announced this week that all employees will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by October 1.

“Our decision was based on the significant increase in COVID, driven by the Delta variant, our commitment to provide the safest environment to care for patients, and to protect our staff, providers and community,” officials said in a statement to employees.

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The vaccine requirement applies to all staff working at Emory Healthcare locations regardless of whether they are employed by Emory Healthcare or the University.

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Employees will be able to apply for an exemption, including temporary vaccine deferrals for pregnancy and other exemptions as well as religious exemptions.

“EHC is anchoring our vaccine policy the same as we have done with the flu, and the only exemptions that will be granted are those approved for medical and religious reasons,” officials said.

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Vaccinations are fully covered by Emory insurance and are free to everyone.

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