FAQ’s Regarding COVID-19 Boosters | University of Portland

FAQ’s Regarding COVID-19 Boosters

Pilots Prevent

January 25, 2022

Have questions about complying with University of Portland’s booster requirement? We have answers. Check out our list of frequently asked questions.

I was recently diagnosed with COVID. Do I still need to get a booster?

Yes, as long as you’ve completed your isolation period and have recovered, it is safe for you to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccination, including a booster, is recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, regardless of past infection. There is no FDA approved test or strategy to determine whether someone is protected from infection by antibodies from a previous infection. The immune response following a COVID-19 vaccination is more reliable, consistent, and predictable than immunity provided by prior infection. Data from multiple studies shows that COVID-19 vaccines can be given safely to people with evidence of a prior COVID infection. 

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html#CoV-19-vaccination

When am I eligible for a booster?

If you received Moderna or Pfizer, you are eligible for a booster 5 months after your second dose. If you received the J&J vaccine you are eligible 2 months after your vaccination.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html

Where can I get a booster?

The Health and Counseling Center is administering the Pfizer booster and flu vaccine to eligible students on Friday, January 28th, and Tuesday, February 1st. Call the HCC at 503.943.7134 to schedule an appointment.

Otherwise, boosters are widely available wherever the COVID-19 vaccine is administered, such as pharmacies, clinics, and doctor’s offices.

What if I am not eligible for the booster until after February 1st?

You will be considered compliant with the requirement until you become eligible. Please plan to receive a booster as soon as possible once you are eligible.

I received the initial COVID-19 vaccine series but do not want to receive a booster. What can I do?

Medical and religious exemptions are available for individuals who cannot or do not want to receive a booster. Please follow the existing exemption application process. Students who have not received a booster will be asked to quarantine if they are exposed to an individual with COVID-19 per CDC and Oregon Health Authority recommendations. This includes being asked to stay home from classes.  If you’ve already received an exemption, you do not need to apply again at this time.

https://www.up.edu/pilotsprevent/vaccinations/student-exemption-process.html

How do I upload evidence of my booster dose?

Students, please log-in to the Health and Counseling Center secure patient portal to upload your proof of vaccination or booster.

Instructions for students to upload their COVID vaccine card:

  1. Login to the secure patient portal on the Health and Counseling Center website.
  2. Go to Medical Clearances.
  3. Find Immunization Records and click the teal Update button.
  4. Upload image of your COVID vaccination card and date of vaccination.