Chancellor’s Message, Free Masks, At-Home COVID-19 Tests, Omicron Facts, Boosters
January 25, 2022
A Message from Chancellor Elliman
Support & Resources
Starting yesterday, in-person activity is again permitted on campus and we are back to operating on a hybrid model. Schools and units are specifying their own schedules, so please check with your supervisor or unit head with questions. Remember to wear a well-fitting mask , maintain your distance from others and follow protocols when on campus.
As we all navigate the continued challenges of this pandemic in our personal and professional lives, let us remember there is help available. Indeed, our campus has launched a new online tool called FindHelpNow , which quickly matches you with relevant services and resources when you need them. The tool is completely anonymous, and links you with support for anything from coping with stress to handling financial hardship or addressing mental and physical health challenges. I encourage you to familiarize yourself with this new tool. You can find details on this and other mental health resources available for members of our community here.
We would also like to make you aware that the CU Anschutz Office of Case Management has a new name. The newly named Office of Student Outreach and Support is here to help students in need of one-on-one assistance, and accepts referrals from those who may notice a student in distress. The student outreach and support team is dedicated to enhancing the student experience and promoting a culture of care.
Also remember the Care@Work by Care.com family care subscription program initiated in fall 2021 remains available for benefits-eligible CU Anschutz and consolidated and administrative services (CSA/ASA) employees who are 0.5 FTE and above. Learn more and enroll here.
With omicron a major presence in our state, please take care of yourselves and remember to take precautions. Explore the links below for free masks and at-home COVID tests, and read insights from our experts on symptoms and treatment.
Thank you for helping keep #CUAnschutzTogether.
Don Elliman
Chancellor
Where to get free KN95 & Surgical Grade Masks in Colorado
Free KN95 and surgical grade masks are now available at select public libraries and other community sites across the state of Colorado. Masks can be picked up (five per person) at the locations detailed below.
View Free Mask Locations
Free At-Home Covid Tests Via U.S. Postal Service
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four at-home COVID-19 tests, delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. The tests are free.
Additional testing options, including testing through our partner COVIDCheck Colorado, are detailed here.
9 Facts about Omicron: Hear From Our Experts
CU Anschutz experts share insights on omicron symptoms and treatments. Read about symptoms, testing and care in “Omicron Symptoms and Treatment: What to Know” in the newsroom.
Boosters Were Required by January 24
COVID-19 booster shots were required for all students, faculty and staff beginning yesterday, January 24.
Students and employees must record booster information in the CU Anschutz vaccine verification system, as outlined on the vaccine information webpage.
If you have not yet completed the booster requirement or have questions, see below.
If you have received your booster but not completed the verification process, follow the instructions on the vaccine information webpage to add your booster information today.
If you are ill with COVID-19, or if you have been treated with monoclonal antibodies and advised not to get a booster for a period of time, please fill out the Delayed Booster Request Form. Please plan to get your booster dose and add your booster information to the CU Anschutz vaccine verification system after the specified amount of time has elapsed – 30 days after positive COVID-19 diagnosis, or 90 days after receiving monoclonal antibodies.
If you have previously been ill with COVID-19 and recovered, you must comply with the booster requirement. The CDC does not recommend deferring vaccination or booster based on infection beyond the period of isolation or as symptoms are resolved.
If you previously filed for and were granted a permanent exemption to the CU Anschutz vaccine requirement, you do not need to submit another exemption request for the booster and no further action is required at this time. Religious exemptions are not available for students, per CU Anschutz COVID-19 Vaccination Policy.
If you previously filed for and were granted a temporary medical exemption to the CU Anschutz vaccine requirement, you will need to submit verification that you received a booster once you are eligible to do so.
Medical exemption from vaccination is only approved for individuals with an absolute contraindication to vaccination per CDC guidance. Currently, the only absolute contraindications to COVID-19 vaccination are i) severe immediate allergic reaction to a previous dose or to a component of the COVID-19 vaccine, ii) immediate reaction of any severity to a previous dose or known (diagnosed) allergy to a component of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Religious exemptions are not available for students, per CU Anschutz COVID-19 Vaccine Policy.
If you are not yet eligible for a booster, you will be required to get the booster within one month of eligibility.
If you need to schedule your booster shot, you can do so through UCHealth My Health Connection or any vaccine provider.
Campus Resources & Reminders
Students: Have input or ideas for campus leadership? Share them using the CU Anschutz Listens form.
The CU Anschutz Food Pantry serves all students and employees 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Keep up with Colorado’s latest COVID-19 guidance.