Amid an increase in measles cases nationwide and Colorado’s first confirmed cases of the year, the Health Center at Auraria is urging members of the community to double down on immunization awareness and preparedness.
While there is no outbreak on campus and the risk remains low, campus leaders are urging students, faculty members and staff members to verify their immunity.
Student requirements remain in place
Colorado law requires all higher-education students enrolled in at least one credit hour to meet the state’s MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) immunization requirement. This policy has not changed. Students must submit compliance documents to the Health Center at Auraria. Submission instructions are available online.
Employee immunity documentation may be needed if exposed
Employees are not required to submit proof of measles immunity. However, they are encouraged to locate and retain their vaccination records in case public-health authorities identify them as part of a potential exposure. In such cases, those without proof of immunity may be required to quarantine off campus to prevent further spread until they can verify immunity.
Proof of immunity includes two documented doses of the MMR vaccine or a positive titer test, which measures immunity by detecting antibodies in your blood.
Learn more and act now to protect our community
Measles is highly contagious — up to 90% of unprotected individuals who are exposed will contract the virus. Health Center Medical Director Ruben Zorrilla, M.D., spoke with the Early Bird to explain the disease and how to stay protected.
Check the Health Center’s website for additional frequently asked questions.
Immunizations and testing available on campus
The Health Center at Auraria offers MMR vaccines, boosters and titer tests for students, faculty members and staff members. Services are covered by most insurance plans and fully covered by Medicaid. For those paying out of pocket, the MMR vaccine costs $75 and the titer test is $66.
