36% of U.S. workers say they are now required to be vaccinated, poll shows

A growing share of American workers say their employers are requiring them to get vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the latest Gallup poll tracking the pandemic. The percentage of workers under a vaccine mandate is now 36%, up from 9% in July. 

Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. workers say their employer encourages but does not require vaccination, down from 6 in 10 in July, Gallup found in the survey covering October 18 to October 24. Another 25% of workers say their employers don't have a vaccination policy.

The latest data underscore shifting workplace policies ahead of the Biden administration's vaccine requirement for large employers, which isn't yet in effect. While a majority of workers voice support for vaccine requirements — Gallup found 56% are in favor of them — a minority object.