Attachment - VI - VHA Directive 1192 01.pdf

This is a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Directive establishing mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirements for VHA health care personnel (HCP). The directive, dated August 10, 2020, requires all VHA HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain a medical or religious exemption, with compliance being a condition of employment.

The directive outlines specific requirements including: vaccination must be completed by November 30 each year; unvaccinated exempt personnel must wear face masks during the influenza season (December 1 through March 31); and documentation must be submitted via VA Form 10-9050. The policy applies to all VA licensed and unlicensed clinical and administrative staff, contractors, volunteers, and trainees who work in VHA facilities. The document notes that VHA's HCP vaccination rates have been lower than national averages, reaching only 65-75% despite a national goal of 90%. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action up to removal from federal service. The directive supersedes VHA Directive 1192 from September 26, 2017 and is scheduled for recertification by August 31, 2025.