Chancellor's Message, Thanksgiving Break, Boosters, Meetings, Badges, Flu Shots & COVID-19 Testing

November 23, 2021

A Message From Chancellor Elliman

Enjoy a Happy, Healthy Thanksgiving Break

As we prepare to close university operations Thursday and Friday, November 25 and 26, for the Thanksgiving break, we want to again thank you for all you do to keep our campus and our mission moving forward. We also want to remind you to take precautions this holiday season, as many of us join together with friends and family.

It is hard to believe that we are heading into our second holiday season amid a global pandemic. Yet it is heartening to know we have taken the right steps to safeguard our health and our community since the beginning, and that we continue to lead by example in addressing this historic challenge. 

I shared last week that COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are on an alarming rise in Colorado. Now is not the time to let our guard down. As we head out for the break, let us keep in mind how far we have come, and continue to do what works to prevent the spread of this relentless virus. Please remember that your actions both on and off campus impact the health of others. If you feel sick, test positive or may have been exposed, please self-report your status and do not come to campus. Our contact tracing team will follow up with support and guidance.

The holidays can be both joyful and stressful times for many, and navigating them during a public health crisis brings distinct challenges. Our own experts offer guidance on planning ahead and focusing on emotional health during this season. Remember, if you need support, there are many mental health resources available. The CDC’s holiday tips and CDPHE’s holiday guide offer useful advice for celebrating safely this winter. 

Whatever your plans, please enjoy a happy, healthy break with loved ones near and far.

Don Elliman

Mask Mandate and In-Person Meetings, Events & Gatherings on Campus

Many Denver metro area county health departments are reacting to the surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations across Colorado with new indoor mask mandates. This includes our local health department Tri-County.

Our campus already has safety protocols in place that align with these new mandates. However, we know vigilance remains key as we enter the holiday season and spend more time indoors as the weather changes.

A few critical reminders are listed below but please follow  campus safety guidelines at all times:

• Masks are required for everyone in indoor campus spaces.
  • This includes classrooms, conference rooms and common areas such as elevators, walkways,​ and hallways.
• Conference rooms must be reserved in advance whenever possible, if not within your unit’s assigned space.
  • They must also be scheduled in the EMS room reservation system.
  • Meetings and events must be held in accordance with COVID-19 capacities and with 6+ feet distance between attendees.
• When taking breaks or meals indoors due to the colder weather, keep 6+ feet from others and wear a mask when not eating and drinking.
• Large events unrelated to essential academic activity are discouraged from taking place in person at this time.
  • However, such events may be approved if aligned with safety protocols and COVID-19 capacity guidelines.
  • Catered, box lunches or other group meals/refreshments continue to be restricted and not allowed at this time within our facilities for groups on campus. 

COVID-19 Boosters Available for Coloradans 18+

COVID-19 boosters are now available to all Coloradans 18 and older six months or more after the initial Pfizer or Moderna vaccine series, or two months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

Schedule your booster today through UCHealth My Health Connection, another medical provider or any vaccine provider.

Wear the Right Badge at Hospital Facilities

Please ensure you use the correct credentials when entering our hospital partner facilities. Your CU badge is not sufficient ID for hospital access.

UCHealth has tightened protocols and security processes around entrance at its facilities. Use your UCH credentials when entering UCHealth buildings, and display appropriate identification at all our clinical partners.

It's Not Too Late for a Flu Shot

Make your appointment by calling the Campus Health Center at 303-724-6242. Students, employees and household members age 3+ are eligible. 

You can find flu vaccines at other area providers here.

Take Advantage of COVID-19 Testing Options

There are many ways to get quick COVID-19 tests for yourself and your household members. Hours may vary at some locations due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

• Free Binax over-the-counter test kits are available through CDPHE’s Rapid At-Home Testing Program.
• UCHealth offers testing by appointment at many locations.
• Children’s Hospital Colorado offers testing for kids, teens and their caregivers by appointment.
• Free testing is also available through COVIDCheck Colorado at numerous area locations.
• More than 100 free community testing sites across Colorado offer free testing without an appointment.

Those enrolled in CU Anschutz’s mandatory weekly COVID-19 testing program must schedule at designated area locations using the link sent via email from COVIDCheck Colorado (Support@Primary.Health). Test results from locations other than those specified as part of the mandatory testing program, including rapid test results, are not accepted. Questions? Contact vaccine@cuanschutz.edu.

Campus Resources & Reminders

• Take breaks and meals outdoors when on campus, weather permitting. When you must dine indoors, find a designated indoor space and observe posted protocols.
• Students: Have input or ideas for campus leadership? Share them using the CU Anschutz Listens form.
• Keep up with Colorado’s latest COVID-19 guidance.