ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — The University of Michigan announced Friday that all faculty, staff and students, including remote students, must be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the Fall semester.

University President Mark Schissel said in a letter to the university community the more infectious delta variant of COVID-19 prompted the decision.

“Widespread vaccination is the primary and most effective tool that will bring the COVID-19 pandemic under control and it is the key to a vibrant and engaging academic year,” the letter read in part.

Proof of vaccination will be required by Aug. 30, though people may seek medical or religious exemptions. The mandate covers all University of Michigan campuses.

Michigan State University made a similar announcement Friday, saying all staff, students and faculty will be required to be fully vaccinated by Aug. 31.

All employees of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health must also get vaccinated, the West Michigan hospital system also told workers Friday.

—News 8 contributed to to this report.