Duquesne University requiring all students get COVID-19 vaccine before fall semester

PITTSBURGH — Starting with the Fall 2021 semester, Duquesne University is requiring students who want to take part in in-person instruction and campus activities to have the COVID-19 vaccine.

Officials said this policy is in line with other university policies that require students to have the measles, mumps, rubella and tetanus vaccines. It will help lift nearly all the campus-wide COVID-19 restrictions currently in place, including masking and physical distancing. With everyone vaccinated, classes will be able to meet again, in-person events can resume, clubs can gather, dining can return to normal operation and residence halls will no longer have space requirements.

Students can provide evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination status through the university’s confidential student health record system. There is information in the student handbook for those requesting an exemption for medical or other reasons.

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University officials ask students start the vaccination process no later than Thursday, July 1 so there is enough time to get both doses and to reach full immunity before returning to campus.

For those who are unable to get vaccinated over the summer, the university is working to get a limited number of doses to give to students by appointment as soon as they arrive on campus.

Students who do not provide proof of vaccination will have to wear masks in all indoor spaces on campus. If a student is not vaccinated, they will incur all costs for testing, quarantine and/or isolation and medical treatment. Students who are required to leave prior to the end of the semester due to COVID-19 and who have not provided proof of vaccination will not be eligible for refunds on housing and dining fees.

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