Hamilton’s McMaster University to require proof of vaccination for return to campus

By

Published August 16, 2021 at 6:17 pm

mcmaster_university_sign

McMaster University announced on Monday afternoon (Aug. 16) that all students, faculty, staff and visitors who wish to access a campus or facility will be required to provide proof of vaccination.

A letter signed by David Farrar, Mac’s President and Vice-Chancellor, and Susan Tighe, the university’s Provost and Vice-President and posted to the school’s website explained how they came to the decision.

“The Delta variant, rising infection rates in the broader community, and the beginning of term have informed the decision by the President and Vice-Presidents to introduce a mandatory COVID vaccination policy for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors attending a McMaster campus or facility,” the letter said.

“The new policy will require that anyone accessing campus or a university facility in person upload proof that they are fully vaccinated, or that they have received an exemption from the university for a validated human rights ground.”

The first day of the new academic year is September 7.

The letter goes on to explain that between September 7 and October 18, those attending campuses or placements in Mac hospitals and health facilities who are not yet fully vaccinated, or who have not yet received an exemption for a ‘validated human rights ground,’ will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result twice a week.

“Student vaccinations will be available through the Student Wellness Centre and other vaccine options for campus are also being organized,” the letter said.

“Testing facilities will also be available for those who need to make use of them.”

McMaster’s announcement follows similar protocols announced in recent weeks by other post-secondary institutions across the province requiring proof of vaccination ahead of the return campuses at the height of the fourth wave.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising