This final weekly update for the spring semester summarizes the campus shift to a mask-optional environment. Information will also continue to be shared on the .

Mask-optional starts March 7 

The university announced on Monday, Feb. 28, that theCU Boulder campus will become mask-optional at 6 a.m. on Monday, March 7. Until then, masks continue to be required in all public indoor spaces, classrooms and laboratories.

Note: Masks will continue to be required after March 7 at the Wardenburg Health Center.

Why masks will be optional

In recent weeks, we have witnessed several encouraging trends with regard to COVID-19 transmission. These include a rapid decline in transmission on our campus, in Boulder County and across the state, as well as a significant decrease in COVID-19-related hospitalizations.

Additionally, we maintain a high level of vaccination, including boosters, among our students and employees. The latest state modeling estimates that 90% of Coloradans are currently immune to infection by the omicron variant through either vaccination, previous infection or both. And on Feb. 25, the , with Boulder County no longer classified as an area in which masks are recommended.

As we have since the start of the pandemic, we will continue to monitor COVID-19 metrics at the campus, local and state levels, in case changing conditions require that we reassess our protocols.

For those who prefer to continue wearing a mask

We recognize that members among our students, faculty and staff have different comfort levels in public spaces and that some members of our community have personal circumstances that would counsel in favor of continued masking. While wearing masks will soon be optional on campus, we encourage those who prefer to do so to continue wearing them, and we support their decision.

Properly fitted N95 or KN95 masks remain an effective tool for preventing transmission, especially in conjunction with vaccination. In fact, for those who want the extra layer of protection, noted that those who wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 indoors are 83% less likely to test positive for COVID-19 than those who do not wear a mask.

We ask that everyone respects the choices of their colleagues and peers as our campus makes this transition.

Additional mask information

Our Campus Mask Guidance page has been updated to include frequently asked questions about the change to a mask-optional campus environment. 

Buff Info liaisons are also available to answer questions. Buff Info liaisons can be reached at 303-492-INFO (4636), via or email at buffinfo@colorado.edu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Reminder: COVID-19 vaccine booster reporting requirement

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community were required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or will be required five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later, or submit an exemption.

Exemptions

There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement. Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements.

Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters or an exemption (if applicable) through the .

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This weekly update includes updates about campus COVID-19 protocols and guidance, as campus officials monitor and in collaboration with Boulder County Public Health. Information will also continue to be shared on the . A change in county policy does not necessarily mean a change to campus policy.

COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement deadline is today

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later, or submit an exemption.

Exemptions: There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement. Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements.

Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters or an exemption (if applicable) through the .

Masks required indoors on campus

, the Boulder County indoor masking requirement will expire on Feb. 18. However, masks will continue to be required in all CU Boulder public indoor spaces regardless of vaccination status. The CU Boulder Public Health Office provided an update to students, faculty and staff on Tuesday, Feb. 15, to outline our approach going forward. CU Boulder’s mask requirement page includes guidance on compliance and what to do if a student, employee or campus visitor is not wearing a mask.

Why the mask requirement is continuing

Our campus is maintaining our mask requirement for the time being to ensure we safeguard the in-person experience by not letting our guard down too soon. is to prioritize actions that preserve in-person learning. This includes maintaining high vaccine uptake on campus as well as indoor masking for everyone in areas of “substantial” or “high” transmission. While Boulder County case metrics have dropped significantly in the past couple of weeks, the county . 

When the campus mask requirement might change

We will consider going mask-optional on our campus if we see continued significant progress in two main metrics: fulfillment of the university’s COVID-19 vaccine booster reporting requirement as the Feb. 24 deadline passes and continued reduction of .

Reminders

CU Boulder’s mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus, regardless of vaccination status, remains in place. Exemptions for events, classes or other group activities can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. There are no changes planned for the campus masking requirement at this time. 

Returning to class/work following a COVID-19 diagnosis

Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances.

Absences due to a COVID-19 diagnosis

Student absences due to COVID-19 or isolation will be treated by faculty as medical absences. 

Supplemental sick leave may apply for faculty and staff. Information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Guidance page. Under , there are leave provisions related to COVID-19 that may be available to employees due to the .

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This weekly update will continue through the month, as campus officials monitor and in collaboration with Boulder County Public Health. Information will also continue to be shared on the . A change in county policy does not necessarily mean a change to campus policy. 

CU Boulder mask requirement continues

, the Boulder County indoor masking requirement will expire on Feb. 18. However, masks will continue to be required in all CU Boulder public indoor spaces regardless of vaccination status. The CU Boulder Public Health Office provided an update to students, faculty and staff on Tuesday, Feb. 15, to outline our approach going forward. CU Boulder’s mask requirement page includes guidance on compliance and what to do if a student, employee or campus visitor is not wearing a mask.

Why the mask requirement is continuing

Our campus is maintaining our mask requirement for the time being to ensure we safeguard the in-person experience by not letting our guard down too soon. is to prioritize actions that preserve in-person learning. This includes maintaining high vaccine uptake on campus as well as indoor masking for everyone in areas of “substantial” or “high” transmission. While Boulder County case metrics have dropped significantly in the past couple of weeks, the county . 

When the campus mask requirement might change

We will consider going mask-optional on our campus if we see continued significant progress in two main metrics: fulfillment of the university’s COVID-19 vaccine booster reporting requirement as the Feb. 24 deadline passes and continued reduction of .

Reminders

COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement: Proof of Vaccination

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later.

Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters through the.

COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement: Exemptions

There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement if the exemption is filed by Feb. 24. 

Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements. 

Students, faculty and staff must file for an exemption based on medical, ethical or moral grounds through the.

Mask requirements and distribution

CU Boulder’s mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus, regardless of vaccination status, remains in place. Exemptions for events, classes or other group activities can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. There are no changes planned for the campus masking requirement at this time. 

Returning to class/work following a COVID-19 diagnosis

Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances. 

Absences due to a COVID-19 diagnosis

Student absences due to COVID-19 or isolation will be treated by faculty as medical absences. 

Supplemental sick leave may apply for faculty and staff. Information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Guidance page. Under , there are leave provisions related to COVID-19 that may be available to employees due to the .

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This weekly update via CU Boulder Today will continue through at least the week of Feb. 14 as campus officials continue to monitor and in collaboration with Boulder County Public Health. Information will also continue to be shared on the . A change in county policy does not necessarily mean a change to campus policy. 

Reminders

COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement: Proof of vaccination

• To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later.
• Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters through the.

COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement: Exemptions

• There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement if the exemption is filed by Feb. 24. 
• Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements. 
• Students, faculty and staff must file for an exemption based on medical, ethical or moral grounds through the.

Mask requirements and distribution

• CU Boulder’s mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus, regardless of vaccination status, remains in place. Exemptions for events, classes or other group activities can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. There are no changes planned for the campus masking requirement at this time. 

Returning to class/work following a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances. 

Absences due to a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Student absences due to COVID-19 or isolation will be treated by faculty as medical absences. 
• Supplemental sick leave may apply for faculty and staff. Information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Guidance page. Under , there are leave provisions related to COVID-19 that may be available to employees due to the .

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This weekly update via CU Boulder Today will continue through at least the week of Feb. 14 as campus officials continue to monitor and in collaboration with Boulder County Public Health. Information will also continue to be shared on the .

COVID-19 vaccine boosters requirement

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later.

Regarding booster requirement exemptions:

• There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement if the exemption is filed by Feb. 24. 
• Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements. 
• Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters or file for an exemption based on medical, ethical or moral grounds through the.

Once you have submitted all required documentation, you will receive an automated confirmation email.  If you have incomplete documentation or if additional information is needed, you will not receive a confirmation email and the immunizations team will contact you directly.

For more information, visit the COVID-19 vaccine requirements and process page. Questions can also be directed to Buff Info by calling 303-492-INFO (4636), emailing BuffInfo@colorado.edu or . 

How to stay informed

The Buff Info team is available to answer questions on a wide variety of topics related to CU Boulder and help faculty, staff, students and parents connect with the appropriate campus office for additional information or assistance as needed.

Buff Info liaisons can be reached at 303-492-INFO (4636), through or via email at buffinfo@colorado.edu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The university will extend these hours when needed.

   View prior updates

Mask requirements, recommendations and distribution

CU Boulder’s mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus, regardless of vaccination status, remains in place. Exemptions for events, classes or other group activities can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. There are no changes planned for the campus masking requirement at this time. 

CU Boulder’s mask requirement page also includes guidance on compliance and what to do if a student, employee or campus visitor is not wearing a mask.

The current include wearing a snugly fit surgical mask, N95 or KN95 when possible, though cloth masks that comply with meet campus requirements and for indoor mask compliance. 

To help campus affiliates meet public health recommendations, CU Boulder has a stock of N95 and KN95 masks that the university began distributing to students, faculty and staff on Friday, Jan. 21:

• Masks can be picked up at any reception desk at the University Memorial Center (UMC), Center for Community (C4C), Student Recreation Center and Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE) buildings. They are also available at the east loading dock of the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC).
• Masks may be picked up between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. 
• Students, faculty and staff members may pick up two masks each at this time. 
• Building proctors/managers have also received direct communications about how they can order large quantities of masks for their buildings.  

For more information on mask distribution on campus, including how to properly fit a mask, read CU Boulder distributing N95, KN95 masks to students, faculty, staff.

Returning to class/work following a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances. 
• If isolation has been completed and symptoms have improved, individuals may return to work or class and should wear a snugly fit mask in all situations for an additional five days. Additional information on isolation and quarantine is available on the Public Health Office website.  

If a student receives a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances. 
• Absences due to COVID-19 or isolation will be treated by faculty as a medical absence. 

If a faculty or staff member receives a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Anyone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis via PCR test or positive rapid antigen test should contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to their circumstances.
• Supplemental sick leave may apply. Information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Guidance page. Under , there are leave provisions related to COVID-19 that may be available to employees due to the .

If a student notifies a faculty member of a diagnosis

Note: This includes positive PCR tests or positive rapid antigen tests. 

• Encourage students to email Contact Tracing. Contact Tracing will confirm a positive result with public health officials and follow up with the student with next steps. Contact tracers will also notify those who have been impacted. Faculty members can review Answers to Common COVID-19 Questions for more information.

COVID-19 dashboard

In general, dashboard information is updated by 8 a.m. each day, Tuesday through Saturday, with results from the previous day of testing. There may be periodic updates at other times to reflect new information. Details from the , and semesters have been archived.

The dashboard page contains:

• A daily summary.
• COVID-19 vaccination data.
• On-campus PCR diagnostic test results.
• Weekly totals from a variety of data.

Note: On Jan. 10, CU Boulder announced updated COVID-19 guidance requiring that members of the campus community receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later. The dashboard will begin incorporating booster data as we near the Feb. 24 deadline.

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In-person instruction resumed on Jan. 24. This weekly update via CU Boulder Today is slated for at least the first two weeks of in-person instruction for the semester, or through Feb. 3. Information will also continue to be shared on the .

Updated mask recommendations and distribution

The current include wearing a snugly fit surgical mask, N95 or KN95 when possible, though cloth masks that comply with meet campus requirements and for indoor mask compliance. 

To help campus affiliates meet public health recommendations, CU Boulder has a stock of N95 and KN95 masks that the university began distributing to students, faculty and staff on Friday, Jan. 21:

• Masks can be picked up at any reception desk at the University Memorial Center (UMC), Center for Community (C4C), Student Recreation Center and Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE) buildings. They are also available at the east loading dock of the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC).
• Masks may be picked up between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. 
• Students, faculty and staff members may pick up two masks each at this time. 
• Building proctors/managers have also received direct communications about how they can order large quantities of masks for their buildings.  

For more information on mask distribution on campus, including how to properly fit a mask, read CU Boulder distributing N95, KN95 masks to students, faculty, staff.

Note: CU Boulder’s mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus remains in place. Exemptions can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. 

What to do if someone isn’t wearing a mask

CU Boulder’s mask requirement page includes guidance on compliance and what to do if a student, employee or campus visitor is not wearing a mask.

How to stay informed

The Buff Info team is available to answer questions on a wide variety of topics related to CU Boulder and help faculty, staff, students and parents connect with the appropriate campus office for additional information or assistance as needed.

Buff Info liaisons can be reached at 303-492-INFO (4636), through or via email at buffinfo@colorado.edu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The university will extend these hours when needed.

   View prior updates

COVID-19 vaccine boosters requirement

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later.

Regarding booster requirement exemptions:

• There are no predetermined medical exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccination booster requirement. However, individuals who previously received a COVID-19 vaccination can file a medical or moral/ethical exemption and still be in compliance with the university’s vaccination reporting requirement if the exemption is filed by Feb. 24. 
• Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements. 
• Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters or file for an exemption based on medical, ethical or moral grounds through the.

Students, staff and faculty will not get a confirmation email that proof of vaccination or vaccine exemption was successfully submitted. Rather, immunizations compliance staff will contact you if any additional information is required. 

For more information, please visit our COVID-19 vaccine requirements and process page. Questions can also be directed to Buff Info by calling 303-492-INFO (4636), emailing BuffInfo@colorado.edu or . 

If a student receives a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Please contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to your circumstances. 
• Absences due to COVID-19 or isolation will be treated by faculty as a medical absence. 

If a faculty or staff member receives a COVID-19 diagnosis

• Supplemental sick leave may apply. Information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Guidance page. Under , there are leave provisions related to COVID-19 that may be available to employees due to the .
• Please contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to your circumstances. 

If a student notifies a faculty member of a diagnosis

• Encourage students to email Contact Tracing. Contact Tracing will confirm a positive result with public health officials and follow up with the student with next steps. Contact tracers will also notify those who have been impacted. Faculty members can review Answers to Common COVID-19 Questions for more information.

Returning to class/work following a diagnosis

• If isolation has been completed and symptoms have improved, individuals may return to work or class and should wear a snugly fit mask in all situations for an additional five days. Additional Information on isolation and quarantine is available on the Public Health Office website.  
• Please contact Contact Tracing to get information specific to your circumstances.

COVID-19 dashboard

In general, dashboard information is updated by 8 a.m. each day, Tuesday through Saturday, with results from the previous day of testing. There may be periodic updates at other times to reflect new information. Details from the , and semesters have been archived.

The dashboard page contains:

• A daily summary.
• COVID-19 vaccination data.
• On-campus PCR diagnostic test results.
• Weekly totals from a variety of data.

Note: On Jan. 10, CU Boulder announced updated COVID-19 guidance requiring that members of the campus community receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later. The dashboard will begin incorporating booster data as we near the Feb. 24 deadline.

How to stay informed

The Buff Info team is available to answer questions on a wide variety of topics related to CU Boulder and help faculty, staff, students and parents connect with the appropriate campus office for additional information or assistance as needed.

Buff Info liaisons can be reached at 303-492-INFO (4636), through or via email at buffinfo@colorado.edu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.  The university will extend these hours when needed.

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CU Boulder looks forward to welcoming students, faculty and staff back for in-person instruction on Jan. 24. This weekly update via CU Boulder Today is slated for at least the first two weeks of in-person instruction for the semester, or through Feb. 3. Information will also continue to be shared on the .

COVID-19 vaccine boosters requirement

To comply with CU Boulder’s updated COVID-19 guidance, members of the campus community are required to receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later.

Students, faculty and staff must upload proof of boosters or file for an exemption based on medical, ethical or moral grounds through the. Individuals who previously submitted an exemption do not need to take further action at this time and will be considered in compliance with current university vaccine reporting requirements. 

Students, staff and faculty will not get a confirmation email that proof of vaccination or vaccine exemption was successfully submitted. Rather, immunizations compliance staff will contact you if any additional information is required. 

For more information, please visit our COVID-19 vaccine requirements and process page. Questions can also be directed to Buff Info by calling 303-492-INFO (4636), emailing BuffInfo@colorado.edu or . 

Requirements for employees when working at off-campus sites

As a CU Boulder employee, you are required to follow the guidelines of any state or federal entity, contractor or business (host site) where you fulfill your job duties. 

• CU Boulder requires that staff/employees performing services at any location outside the CU Boulder campus comply with all applicable guidelines or requirements of the host site. This may include showing vaccination status or negative test results to the host site.  
• In some cases, unvaccinated employees (including those with medical or moral/ethical exemptions) may be required to follow testing requirements as stipulated by host sites. Surveillance testing is not available through CU Boulder, and employees should work with their host site to identify nearby testing resources. 
• If an employee fails to show the host site the proper information (negative tests or vaccination status) and the host site contacts CU Boulder, Human �ƹ���Ƶ will consider this a performance issue of not fulfilling the required job duties. 

How to stay informed

The Buff Info team is available to answer questions on a wide variety of topics related to CU Boulder and help faculty, staff, students and parents connect with the appropriate campus office for additional information or assistance as needed.

Buff Info liaisons can be reached at 303-492-INFO (4636), through or via email at buffinfo@colorado.edu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The university will extend these hours when needed.

   View prior updates

Updated mask recommendations and distribution

• Our mask requirement for classrooms and indoor public spaces on campus remains in place. Exemptions can be applied for through the campus Public Health Office. 
• Boulder County Public Health recommends wearing a snugly fitting surgical mask, N95 or KN95 when possible, though cloth masks that comply with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mask guidance meet the requirement as well.
• CU Boulder has a stock of N95 and KN95 masks that the university is making available to students, faculty and staff beginning Friday, Jan. 21. Masks can be picked up at any reception desk at the University Memorial Center (UMC), Center for Community (C4C), Student Recreation Center, the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC), and Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE) buildings. Masks may be picked up between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. 

COVID-19 dashboard

In general, dashboard information is updated by 8 a.m. each day, Tuesday through Saturday, with results from the previous day of testing. There may be periodic updates at other times to reflect new information. Details from the , and semesters has been archived.

The dashboard page contains:

• A daily summary.
• COVID-19 vaccination data.
• On-campus PCR diagnostic test results.
• Weekly totals from a variety of data.

Note: On Jan. 10, CU Boulder announced updated COVID-19 guidance requiring that members of the campus community receive a vaccine booster shot by Feb. 24 or five months after receiving the final dose of the original series, whichever is later. The dashboard will begin incorporating booster data as we near the Feb. 24 deadline.

CU Boulder Campus Q&A recording

addressing the fire recovery, our remote start to the spring semester and new COVID-19 data is now available.

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CU Boulder students, faculty and staff are invited to attend a virtual town hall from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 12, to discuss topics including the remote academic start to the spring semester, post-Marshall Fire recovery efforts, COVID-19 and more. Hosted by Chancellor Philip DiStefano, Chief Operating Officer Patrick O'Rourke and Academic Affairs, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions. .

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While the fires may be extinguished, the long road of recovery and healing in many local neighborhoods is just beginning. As this recovery begins, we have decided to begin the spring term on Monday, Jan. 10, with fully remote instruction for the first two weeks of the semester.

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This is the last scheduled COVID-19 weekly update for Fall 2021. Information will continue to be shared on the or through campuswide messaging as needed.

Health & Wellness Summit: Revive. Reconnect. Thrive!

The Health & Wellness Summit Oct. 12–15 will focus on mental health, self-care, connection and belonging, and community wellness: all areas deeply impacted by COVID-19. 

The summit is open to CU faculty, staff and students interested in learning more about the campus’s holistic approach to health and wellness and about the programs and services available. There will be a combination of featured virtual presentations, free in-person activities and expos. Registration is required by Oct. 7. 

Campus and county case counts 

For most of September, diagnostic test results through CU Boulder Medical Services ranged from zero to three positive test results per day. The shows a steady decline in incidence among all age groups for the latter half of September, with the 18-to-22-year-old age group experiencing one of the lowest infection rates.

Reminders to help keep cases low:

• Continue to follow campus and county mask requirements.
• Monitor your health for COVID-19 symptoms.
• Get a COVID-19 test as needed.

Flu season

Medical Services provides free flu shots by appointment for CU Boulder students in a variety of locations on campus during the flu season. Wardenburg is unable to provide flu vaccines to CU Boulder staff and faculty at this time. An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to help protect against the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

Disposing of masks

Signage will be posted in campus buildings promoting proper disposal of masks. Those on campus are asked to properly dispose of their masks and avoid leaving them on the ground.

Food at events

Food may be served at campus events, as long as attendees wear masks until they are seated and actively eating or drinking.

Past due: Campus vaccination requirement

The deadline for all CU Boulder students, staff and faculty to complete the COVID-19 vaccine requirement process was Sept. 15. 

Missed the deadline?

• Students: Submit your documentation as soon as possible. You will have a HOLD on your spring 2021 class registration, as well as a FEE applied to your October 2021 bill as a “Noncompliance Immunization Fee.” Completing the requirement will remove the HOLD, but will not remove the fee.
• Employees: Submit your information as soon as possible. Employees who do not complete the requirement will be subject to disciplinary actions, potentially up to and including termination. For faculty and staff in a merit-eligible position, future merit could also be withheld. Note: If you are on an extended leave of absence, you will be given time to comply when you return before disciplinary actions are considered. Consequences will begin in October.

Most students have completed the COVID-19 vaccine requirement, and the Health and Wellness team has verified that 95% of students who submitted their information received the vaccine. Nearly all employees submitted their information, and 96% of employees who completed the requirement have received the vaccine. For the latest vaccine requirement data for students and employees, visit the COVID-19 dashboard.

All submitted information has been processed. 

If a student notifies you of a diagnosis 

Encourage students who test positive for COVID-19 to notify Contact Tracing via email. Contact Tracing will confirm a positive result with public health officials and will follow up with the student with next steps. Contact tracers will also notify those who have been impacted.

You do not need to quarantine if you have been around someone who tests positive for COVID-19 if you are fully vaccinated and if you do not have symptoms. However, testing is recommended three to five days after you've been exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case. For more information on current quarantine guidance, visit the quarantine section of the Public Health webpage.

Fall 2021 reminders

COVID-19 testing

COVID-19 testing on campus is open to all CU Boulder undergraduate and graduate students through the Public Health Clinic.

• Asymptomatic students: Schedule an appointment through the MyCUHealth portal.
• Symptomatic students: You will need to meet with a provider to assess symptoms and provide the best care and tests for your situation. Symptomatic students can schedule an appointment through the MyCUHealth portal or seek a same-day appointment by calling the Public Health Clinic at 303-492-5432. In-person and telehealth options are available.

Asymptomatic faculty and staff may be eligible for on-campus Public Health Clinic testing based on certain criteria. Symptomatic faculty and staff are not eligible to be seen at the Public Health Clinic and should schedule an appointment with their personal medical provider.

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Campus mask requirement 

CU Boulder requires masks in public indoor spaces regardless of vaccination status. Read more about the temporary masking measure. Find more answers to frequently asked questions by faculty and staff.

If you see someone not wearing a mask, in most instances the person has forgotten or has an approved exemption. You can politely remind people of the mask requirement or point out nearby signage. Keep in mind that there are medical reasons that may prevent an individual from wearing a mask. The Public Health Office is the resource for requesting mask exemptions. Mask exemptions will be granted based on a clear and compelling need in alignment with public health guidance. All exemption applicants will need to complete a risk assessment conversation with the CU Public Health Office. .

Campus infrastructure mitigation efforts

While vaccination now offers the greatest protection against transmission of COVID-19, many mitigation measures at campus facilities are continuing this fall as an added precaution. This includes the mitigation measures employed in all our campus buildings for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) to maximize airflow, filtration and outdoor air. Enhanced cleaning measures will also continue. Read more about infrastructure mitigation efforts. 

Local COVID-19 vaccination opportunities

Medical Services is providing free COVID-19 vaccines to CU Boulder students, staff and faculty.  Drop-in vaccine clinics and appointments are available at Wardenburg Health Center. 

Appointments can be scheduled through the portal. Medical Services is currently administering the Pfizer vaccine. Additional vaccination clinic options can be found at webpage and Colorado’s webpage. 

Updates to Buff Pass are now complete

The option to use the Buff Pass health questionnaire continues to be available to help you assess any symptoms you may be experiencing and next steps to take, if applicable. . To access the Daily Health Tracker click “Get Today’s  Buff Pass.” If you have not used the feature before, you will be prompted to update your contact information first.

Student Emergency Fund

The fall 2021 application for the Student Emergency fund is open. The Student Emergency Fund provides support to CU Boulder students experiencing a crisis that could adversely affect their semester. The intent of the funding is to support students experiencing a temporary financial hardship as a result of COVID-19.

The funds are limited and not intended to provide ongoing relief for recurring expenses. Not all applications will be approved, even if a student meets the eligibility criteria.

Rec Center COVID-19 Protocols

Masks will be required indoors any time individuals are not actively engaging in sports, fitness or other recreational activities. Masks are recommended at all times for anyone who is not fully vaccinated.

Masks are required when:

• Entering and exiting the building
• At all customer services desks
• In meeting rooms
• Moving between fitness spaces or pieces of equipment
• Spectating at sport games or practices

Masks are not required when:

• Actively participating in recreational activities, sports or fitness
• Eating or drinking
• They impede necessary communication or instruction

Guest and visitor policies

At this time, members cannot purchase guest passes for visitors to use recreation facilities.

All campus tour participants, meeting attendees and event spectators over the age of 2 will be required to wear a mask at all times in the building.

 Study spots on campus

Reserving study spaces is no longer required; however, you always have the option to do so if you so choose. Visit Find Your Study Spot for more information.

Boulder County indoor mask public health order 

. The public health order applies—regardless of vaccination status—to persons age two and up. This does not change the current mask requirement on campus. 

COVID-19 dashboard 

The COVID-19 dashboard has been updated for the fall 2021 semester. Diagnostic testing results will continue to be updated on the dashboard. In general, dashboard information is updated by 8 a.m. with results from the previous day of testing.

Follow Public Health Office guidance

Review information from the Public Health Office for students, staff and faculty members who will be providing in-person opportunities including classes, events, programs and other activities that involve gatherings of any size. Important reminders include:

• Encourage students, staff, faculty and non-CU affiliates to stay home if they are feeling sick or have COVID-19-like symptoms.
• Adhere to public health guidance and policies.
• Opt to have events, programs and gatherings outdoors when possible.

What to expect if diagnosed with COVID-19

Employees: An employee who tests positive should receive resources from their county public health office. You can also connect with the Public Health Office on campus (303-735-0017 or contacttracing@colorado.edu). We encourage employees to disclose the diagnosis with their supervisor to facilitate sick leave requests. Employees can also connect with leave@colorado.edu to understand how to implement the directives from contact tracing. COVID-19 leave information can be found on the COVID-19 HR Processes page.

Note: If a student notifies you they have tested positive for COVID-19, please refer them to Contact Tracing at contacttracing@colorado.edu. 

Students: When you have a confirmed positive COVID-19 test result, connect with the Public Health Office (303-735-0017 or contacttracing@colorado.edu). They will ask you about your symptoms, health concerns, possible exposures and current situation. The case investigator will provide you with a timeline for isolation and recommendations based on your situation, as well as other resources as needed to support you and those around you.

Reminder: There are no isolation spaces on campus because COVID-19 vaccinations are widely available and CU Boulder has a vaccination requirement. COVID-19 vaccinations are the best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19, including the delta variant. We also recommend all roommates discuss challenging topics and create a roommate agreement. In addition to having discussions with your roommate(s) in advance about how you’d like to handle illnesses (of any type), you can contact Contact Tracing for information on how to proceed if you feel you have been exposed to COVID-19. 

Case investigation and contact tracing

CU Boulder’s Public Health Office will continue to provide COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing this year. Any person who tests positive on campus will have an investigation conducted within one day. Based on case investigation and contact tracing, the Public Health Office will provide guidance on quarantine and isolation as well as any classroom management, if appropriate.

Please follow official public health guidance provided by the Public Health Office or local authorities; do not create your own. Visit the Public Health Office webpage for information on contact tracing, quarantine and other guidance.

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