Covid Resources for Spring 22′
With in person classes in full swing, now is the perfect time to stock up on high quality masks, testing supplies, and other free resources to make sure the semester goes smoothly and safely for us all! The many variants of the covid-19 virus require different responses and precautions depending on many factors: transmissibility, the degree to which it is contagious, and the effectiveness of existing vaccines. For the current dominant variant (Omicron), higher quality masks such as the n95 or kn95 are the gold standard and offer the necessary level of protection that cloth masks and surgical masks fail to provide.
As a community we recognize the dedication and hard work that is required to adequately protect those most at risk but understand that this effort can be frustrating. Despite the burnout we may all be experiencing, it is imperative that we continue to follow health and safety guidelines, remain masked when around others in public, get vaccinated, and check in on your fellow Buffs as these are unprecedented times! The effort we put forth now as a community, will define the spirit of the university for years to come. This week, I challenge you all to embrace the university’s motto “let your light shine”, by taking action to protect and support those most vulnerable to covid-19.
Covid-19 Testing Resources:
There are many options for covid-19 testing on and off campus.
- The federal government has begun offering 4 free at home tests to every single address in America, that will ship within 7-12 days. These are rapid antigen tests (over the counter) and not PCR tests. They can be ordered here.
- The State of Colorado has over 150 testing sites statewide, completely free of charge. While these are free, test result times vary depending on the volume of testing and may result in delayed test results. Preregistration is highly encouraged! To find a location near you click here.
- CU offers on campus testing to all CU Boulder undergraduate students and graduate students through the Public Health Clinic. 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. Sign up for a test here.
Free Face Masks:
The university is also offering students, staff, and faculty Kn95 and n95 masks free of charge, they can be found weekdays from 10am- 3pm at the reception desks (unless otherwise stated) of the following buildings: University Memorial Center (UMC), Center for Community (C4C), Student Recreation Center, Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE), as well as the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community loading dock area.
Furthermore, the university is still providing surgical masks in most buildings that can be worn underneath cloth masks.