Hamilton’s McMaster University to pause mask, vaccine policies for upcoming terms
Published March 25, 2022 at 1:47 pm
Hamilton’s McMaster University announced on Friday (March 25) that it will pause its COVID-19 vaccine policy and mask requirement for the spring and summer terms, starting May 1.
In a letter to the community, signed by the university’s president and provost, Mac announced that the changes will come into effect by the end of the winter term, to be in alignment with government requirements.
McMaster chose to extend its vaccination policy and mask protocols beyond the province’s timeframe in an effort, it said, to provide “ a more stable environment for students, staff, and faculty.”
Daily screening, through the university’s online ‘MacCheck’, will also no longer be required but anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms is urged to stay home.
While the school said it is pausing its mask and vaccination policies, staff and students are still being encouraged to get their shots and to wear masks indoors.
“If pandemic circumstances and public health advice shifts and government requirements change, we may need to quickly re-instate a mask requirement and a vaccine policy,” Friday’s notice said.
Videos
“Resumption of a vaccine mandate would mean that access to campus is limited to those who are vaccinated. This would impact the ability for students to complete fully in-person courses, and employees may not be able to attend University property and could be subject to other outcomes based on their vaccination status.”
To read the letter to the community in its entirety, visit McMaster’s website.
insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising