University adjusts COVID-19 vaccine policy

  • August 09, 2022
  • COVID-19 Faculty and Staff Students University Updates

The University will recommend – rather than require – students, faculty and staff to get a COVID-19 vaccine and/or booster for the 2022-2023 academic year. This decision reflects several variables: 

  • Current case rates: The reduced threat the coronavirus and its variants pose in terms of the current rate of infection and hospitalization. Cases in Colorado have been declining all summer and the current daily case rate of 25 per 100,000 people is forecast to decline below 18 by the time the traditional undergraduate semester begins Aug. 22.
  • Increased vaccine availability: COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available at pharmacies and health departments. Additionally, Regis will be offering an on-campus influenza/COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Sept. 21.  The state Department of Public Health and Environment reports 80.2% of adults are fully immunized. Regis will continue to encourage the University community to stay up to date on all vaccines.
  • Healthcare and testing services: COVID-19 testing is also widely available and our Student Health Services office can do PCR testing with results in less than 60 minutes. The University will be providing the rapid, at-home COVID tests in its residence halls and elsewhere on campus. Masks will also be available and recommended for anyone who has been exposed or recovering from COVID. Anyone who tests positive is expected to report their case to the University and self-isolate per current CDC protocols.

Scientists and public health officials believe that COVID-19 is transitioning from a pandemic to an endemic, which means the virus will remain present but with more predictable spread and infection rates. The common variant now circulating is more transmissible but has milder symptoms and quicker recovery without hospitalization. The vast majority of complications due to COVID-19 are primarily in the unvaccinated population. As with all communicable diseases, we encourage everyone in the Regis community to practice good hygiene and be respectful to each other by staying home when feeling ill. 

The university continues to monitor all infectious diseases in our community and will change recommendations or requirements as necessary in accordance with the CDPHE and CDC guidelines.

Report a positive COVID-19 test here.