Immunization

Submitting Proof of Influenza (Flu) Vaccination

Influenza vaccination records must include the following information:

• Full name of patient
• Vaccine type
• Administration date

We are flexible on what we can accept for these. Examples include receipt of payment, clinical after-visit summary, or vaccination record.

To upload your vaccination records, complete the following steps:

1. Log into the MyHealth portal.
2. Select MEDICAL CLEARANCES on the left side bar.
3. Click UPDATE next to Immunization Record.
4. Click UPLOAD.
5. Attach and upload your file(s).
6. Click SAVE.

To speed up the process, please also:

1. Click UPDATE next to the Influenza clearance.
2. Enter the date you received your vaccination.
3. Select the matching vaccination type from the drop down menu.
4. Click DONE.

If you are unable to upload, you may email your record to info@hcc.du.edu or fax it to 303-871-4242. Please include your full name and DU ID number with all communications.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your record, you will receive a confirmation message. Due to high volume, please allow up to three business days for confirmation.

For help obtaining immunization or submitting your vaccination records, contact the HCC at 303-871-2205 or info@hcc.du.edu.

 

Flu Vaccine Attestation

If you received your influenza vaccination but are unable to provide adequate documentation of your influenza vaccination, you may submit a Flu Attestation Form.

Follow these steps to complete the form:

1. Download the Flu Attestation Form.
2. Fill in the information about your vaccination: date, location, and provider.
3. Fill in the identification information and sign at the bottom of the form.

The University of Denver requires an actual signature. An adobe digital ID will be rejected.

Follow these steps to submit your attestation:

1. Log into the MyHealth portal.
2. Select MEDICAL CLEARANCES on the left side bar.
3. Click UPDATE next to Immunization Record.
4. Click UPLOAD.
5. Attach and upload your attestation.
6. Click SAVE.

If you are unable to upload, you may email your record to info@hcc.du.edu or fax it to 303-871-4242. Please include your DU ID number, first and last name with all communications.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your record, you will receive a confirmation message in MyHealth.

 

Exemptions to the Influenza (Flu) Vaccination Requirement

DU recognizes that not every individual is in a position to be vaccinated against influenza (flu) at this time. Accordingly, we have established a process to consider requests for certain limited exemptions to the flu vaccination requirement. The Health & Counseling Center will consider requests for exemptions due to medical and non-medical reasons. DU may reconsider the availability of certain exemptions based on changing conditions on campus, in the surrounding community, or the state, in addition to changes in public health guidance and/or developments related to the flu vaccines.

DU community members who become infected with influenza or a similar flu-like illness must remain off campus for the duration of their symptoms to allow for a full recovery and assist in keeping our community healthy.

Medical Exemptions

Medical exemptions must be requested by submitting a letter or statement from your doctor indicating the clinically supported reason(s) you should not receive the MMR and/or MenACWY vaccine.

Non-medical Exemptions

Personal or religious exemptions must be requested by submitting the Non-Medical Exemption form. These exemptions require a statement from the individual (or a parent/guardian if the individual is under 18 years of age), stating that the vaccine violates sincerely held religious or personal beliefs. Non-medical exemptions must be renewed annually.

Submitting Your Exemption Request

Follow these steps to submit your request document:

1. Log into the MyHealth portal.
2. Select DOWNLOADABLE FORMS on the left side bar.
3. Locate the INFLUENZA EXEMPTION FORM.
4. Select UPLOAD.
5. Attach and upload your request document.

If you are unable to upload, you may email your document to info@hcc.du.edu or fax it to 303-871-4242. Please include your DU ID number, first and last name with all communications.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your request for exemption, you will receive notification in MyHealth. For questions about accessing MyHealth or for help uploading, contact info@hcc.du.edu.

Flu Vaccine FAQs

• Is the flu vaccination requirement a permanent change to DU's immunization policy?

  Yes. This new requirement will be for Fall 2021 and all future flu seasons in an effort to keep our community safe and healthy.

• To whom does the requirement apply?

  The requirement mandates flu vaccination for all full and part time students, faculty, and staff living, working, or learning on campus. Individuals may request medical, disability, personal, and religious exemptions. See "Exemptions to the Influenza (Flu) Vaccination Requirement" above.

• Why is the University making this recommendation now?

  Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic occurring simultaneously with influenza, the University felt this action was necessary to maintain a safe community. Increased access to and uptake of the influenza vaccination will ensure our health care systems capacity and a safer campus community.

• Is there a consequence for those who do not get a flu shot?

  Individuals who do not certify that they have received the 2021–2022 flu vaccine, or have an approved exemption or accommodation, will not have access to campus. If the inability to access University facilities affects an employee’s ability to perform job functions, you can work with your supervisor to find alternative work options but there may be consequences as determined by the supervisor. DU community members who become infected with influenza or a similar flu-like illness must remain off campus for the duration of their symptoms to allow for a full recovery and assist in keeping our community healthy.

• How will faculty, other academic appointees, and staff provide proof that they have received the flu vaccine?

  For those students, faculty, and staff vaccinated through the University, no further action is required. If you received your influenza vaccination outside DU, you may upload a receipt or other proof of vaccination. See "Providing Proof of Influenza (Flu) Vaccination" above. If you have further questions, contact the DU Health & Counseling Center for assistance at 303-871-2205 or info@hcc.du.edu.

• Are there any exemptions from the flu vaccine requirement?

  Yes. Students, faculty, and staff may request an exemption for medical or non-medical reasons. See "Exemptions to the Influenza (Flu) Vaccination Requirement" above. If you have further questions, contact the DU Health & Counseling Center for assistance at 303-871-2205 or info@hcc.du.edu.

• Will students, faculty, and staff without an on-campus presence for winter/spring 2022 need to provide proof of influenza vaccination?

  If students, faculty, and staff need on-campus access at any time, they must certify by December 15 that they have received the 2021–2022 flu vaccine or have an approved exemption or accommodation.

• When will this year's flu vaccine be available?

  The flu vaccine is generally available from about September through April. Ideally, it should be taken every year by the end of October. Anyone can get their flu vaccine at retail pharmacies, through their healthcare provider, or on-campus flu clinics. Dates, locations, and times of on-campus clinics are listed on CrimsonConnect.

• What is the cost of the flu vaccine for faculty, other academic appointees, or staff?

  The flu vaccine is available at no cost to students, faculty, or staff who obtain it on campus. All Affordable Care Act–compliant medical insurance plans, including DU’s employee health plans, cover influenza vaccination at no cost to the individual.

• If an employee does not have health insurance that covers the full cost of a vaccine, will DU reimburse the employee for the cost?

  No. On-campus flu vaccination will be offered at no cost. Otherwise, contact your local public health department for information about the availability of free or low-cost flu vaccines.

• Will you be setting up flu vaccine clinics off campus for faculty/students/staff?

  No. Students, faculty, and staff without an on-campus presence can obtain the vaccine from a local pharmacy or their health care provider’s office.

• What is the deadline to receive the flu vaccine?

  The deadline is December 15, 2021, for those who are required or wish to access the DU campus, and subject to requests for exemption. However, all members of the DU community are strongly encouraged to receive the flu vaccine.

• If a student/faculty/staff member does not get the flu vaccine, and is therefore restricted from the DU campus, can they still attend class/work remotely?

  Most courses have online learning options. Students should make arrangements with their professors. For faculty and staff, if their chair/supervisor determines their job does not require on-site presence, they may work remotely.

  Individuals who do not certify that they have received the 2021–2022 flu vaccine, or have an approved exemption or accommodation, will not have access to campus. DU community members who become infected with influenza or a similar flu-like illness must remain off campus for the duration of their symptoms to allow for a full recovery and assist in keeping our community healthy.

• Will hourly workers be granted time off to obtain the vaccine?

  Policy-covered hourly employees may take up to two hours of paid time. Employees must provide advance notice to their supervisor.

• Will this requirement apply to union-represented employees?

  Yes. DU will collaboratively review the effects of this new requirement with on-campus union representatives.

• Is December 15 a firm deadline for when students, faculty, and staff must document they've received a flu vaccination or an approved exemption or accommodation?

  Yes. This is a firm deadline for students, faculty, and staff who will have an on-campus presence for winter 2022. If you are currently off campus but are later required or wish to access the DU campus (other than as a patient) during the 2021–2022 flu season, you must provide proof you have received the flu vaccine or an exemption or accommodation (or have a request for exemption or accommodation pending). Even if you continue to work or study remotely, everyone is encouraged to obtain the 2021–2022 vaccine consistent with CDC and CDPHE guidance, as well as recommendations from the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

• Are contractors covered by the new vaccine requirement?

  Contractors who are DU employees are covered by the new flu vaccine requirement. Independent contractors, vendors, and other visitors are not covered, but are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated. Access to campus by non-affiliates may be restricted.

• Does this requirement apply to visiting scholars and visiting students?

  Yes. One of the main purposes of the vaccine requirement is to reduce the risks of being on campus, and it applies to all students, faculty, and staff with campus access. The requirement is not premised on whether a person is a paid employee, but rather whether they are a student, faculty, or staff member entering the DU campus. Accordingly, the requirement does apply to visiting scholars and visiting students.

• Does this requirement apply to children enrolled in Ricks or Fisher's early learning centers?

  No, the requirement does not apply to those children. However, these centers are subject to state laws governing mandatory vaccinations and campuses may implement similar mandates consistent with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• How can one get the flu vaccine?

  Anyone can get the flu vaccine at retail pharmacies, through their healthcare providers, or through on-campus flu clinics. Dates, locations, and times of on-campus clinics are listed in CrimsonConnect.

• I'm afraid of getting a shot. May I opt out?

  Please speak with your health care provider about your options. Where available, people can get vaccinated with a nasal spray rather than a shot. Fear alone is not a basis for a medical exemption or accommodation.

• Can I get the flu from getting the influenza vaccine?

  No. Flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines given with a needle (i.e., flu shots) are made with either inactivated (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are attenuated (weakened) so that they will not cause illness.

COVID-19 Immunization Requirements

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) and the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) strongly support requiring full vaccination of students against COVID-19 before returning to in-person learning and on-campus activities. Consistent with this recommendation, and in consultation with its health partner, National Jewish Health, the University of Denver (DU) is requiring students, faculty, and staff who are living, learning, or working in person to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before they are allowed on campus. This requirement applies to individuals who are studying or working in person as part of their DU role even if the in-person activity does not occur on campus (e.g., study abroad, other off-campus programs, or conducting DU business in other locations).

"Fully vaccinated" means two weeks have passed since an individual received a one-dose vaccine or the second dose of a two-dose vaccine. DU may require individuals who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to follow additional mitigation protocols such as quarantining before arriving on campus, after travel, or following exposure to COVID-19, more frequent testing, social distancing, and wearing face coverings.

 

COVID Testing at DU

Students, faculty, and staff can receive free COVID testing on campus. For up-to-date testing information, visit the DU Spit Lab.

 

Submitting Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination

To provide proof of vaccination, upload a photograph of your completed vaccine card (instructions below). Your photo should clearly identify the type of vaccine, the date(s) on which you received it, and the provider. You must upload your vaccine card even if you were vaccinated on campus.

1. Log into the MyHealth portal.
2. Select MEDICAL CLEARANCES on the left side bar.
3. Click UPDATE next to COVID Vaccine.
4. Click UPLOAD.
5. Attach and upload your file(s).
6. Click ADD IMMUNIZATION.
7. Enter the date you received your vaccination.
8. Select the matching vaccination type from the drop down menu.
9. Click SAVE.
10. Click DONE.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your record, you will receive a confirmation message. If your vaccine record is approved and you are two weeks post-vaccination, your status on the campus access portal will change to "vaccinated." For questions about accessing MyHealth or for help uploading, contact info@hcc.du.edu.

 

Exemptions to the COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

DU recognizes that not every individual is in a position to be vaccinated against COVID-19 at this time. Accordingly, in April of 2021, DU established a process to consider requests for certain limited exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement. Through that process, the Health & Counseling Center will consider requests for exemptions due to medical and non-medical reasons. DU may reconsider the availability of certain exemptions based on changing conditions on campus, in the surrounding community, or the state, in addition to changes in public health orders and/or guidance and/or developments related to the COVID-19 vaccines.

To submit an exemption request, please download, complete, sign, and upload the applicable form and any required documentation. Please note that submission of a request for exemption does not constitute a request for accommodation related to your employment or your participation in academic or other programs as a student at DU. You will need to contact Human Resources & Inclusive Community or the Disability Services Program, respectively, to engage in the interactive accommodation process.

This exemption information is specific to COVID-19 vaccination only. If you are requesting exemption from other vaccinations, such as the MMR vaccination requirement or the flu vaccination requirement, these exemption requests must be filed individually.

Medical exemptions must be requested by submitting the Medical Exemption form along with a letter or statement from your doctor indicating the clinically supported reason(s) you should not receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Religious exemptions must be requested by submitting the Non-Medical Exemption form. These exemptions require a statement from the individual (or a parent/guardian if the individual is under 18 years of age), stating that the vaccine violates sincerely held religious beliefs. Non-medical exemptions must be renewed annually.

Follow these steps to submit the form:

1. Log into the MyHealth portal.
2. Select DOWNLOADABLE FORMS on the left side bar.
3. Locate the COVID-19 EXEMPTION FORM.
4. Select UPLOAD.
5. Attach and upload the form.

If you are unable to upload, you may email the form to info@hcc.du.edu or fax it to 303-871-4242. Please include your DU ID number, first and last name with all communications.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your request for exemption, you will receive notification in MyHealth. If HCC approves your exemption request, your vaccination status on the campus access portal will change to "exempt." For questions about accessing MyHealth or for help uploading, contact info@hcc.du.edu.

Those with an approved exemption (a) must comply with additional mitigation protocols, including more frequent testing, mandatory mask wearing indoors and outdoors in groups of five or more, and quarantine following travel or exposure; (b) are not approved for international travel for University business or academic programs; and (c) are not approved for provision of in-person clinical services on campus or in-person participation in field placements.

 

COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Requirements

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and the University of Denver strongly support requiring full vaccination of students against COVID-19 to return to in-person learning and on-campus activities. Requiring vaccination helps protect the health and welfare of students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community by limiting the spread of COVID-19 and the rise in variants. Accordingly, DU has required that students, faculty, and staff be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus beginning with the fall term 2021. DU has recently announced that all DU community members who are subject to the vaccination requirement and not already exempted from the COVID-19 vaccine must receive a COVID-19 booster vaccination by January 31, 2022, or as soon thereafter as they become eligible for a booster.

If you have an existing approved exemption, you do not need to file additional paperwork. Note that DU will not accept requests for non-medical exemptions from the booster requirement.

 

Exemptions to the COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Requirements

Medical exemptions to COVID-19 booster vaccination must be requested by submitting the Booster Medical Exemption form along with a letter or statement from your doctor indicating the clinically supported reason(s) you should not receive a COVID-19 booster vaccination, as well as the time period for which the exemption is required.

After the Health & Counseling Center has reviewed your request for exemption, you will receive notification in MyHealth. If HCC approves your exemption request, your vaccination status on the campus access portal will change to "exempt." For questions about accessing MyHealth or for help uploading, contact info@hcc.du.edu.

Those with an approved exemption (a) must comply with additional mitigation protocols, including more frequent testing, mandatory mask wearing indoors and outdoors in groups of five or more, and quarantine following travel or exposure; (b) are not approved for international travel for University business or academic programs; and (c) are not approved for provision of in-person clinical services on campus or in-person participation in field placements.

 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HCC/DU recognizes that mandatory vaccination requirements may place undue burden on communities of color and those with trauma related to historical and contemporary experiences with medical care. We are relying on your compliance as we work to keep our communities safe. We have made efforts to remove barriers to care such as cost and access and follow the most rigorous scientific evidence available when providing and recommending healthcare to students. If you have questions or concerns about any aspect of the vaccination process, please reach out for support.

A list of resources and contact information listed in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion support webpage can be found here: https://www.du.edu/equity/dei-covid-19-resources

 

Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS)

The University of Denver Health & Counseling Center participates in the Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS). Immunizations given at the DU HCC will be entered into CIIS. Other information such as past immunization records provided to the DU HCC, gender, and the office where each shot is given will be included in the registry to be sure that your record is accurate and cannot be confused with another patient's. Your address will also be included in the system to allow your health care provider to send you a card to remind you are due for an immunization. All information entered into CIIS is secure and confidential.

Under Colorado State Law, you can exclude your immunization information from participation. If you would like to opt out, please complete the form on the CIIS opt-out procedures page and provide a copy to CIIS as directed on the form.