Oshawa’s Ontario Tech University to continue with mask mandates

To help minimize the spread of COVID-19, Ontario Tech has decided to maintain its existing mandatory mask directive in all university buildings until further notice.

“Eventually, and hopefully in the not-too-distant future, the university’s mask directive will be lifted,” a statement from the school declared, while reminding the campus community about the importance of other preventive measures.

“As an institution of higher learning, it is critical to have open, informed discussions about the best way to keep the university community safe as we continue to deal with a global pandemic. It’s also important that every member of the campus community continues to act responsibly and do their part to ensure we remain safe and healthy.”

School officials noted in the statement that they recognize the ability to maintain physical distancing in some congregate settings will be a challenge and offered some suggestions on staying safe and healthy:

• Remain up-to-date on vaccinations and secure the maximum number of doses available to you, when eligible. This remains the best protection against the worst effects of COVID-19 and its variants and is the most important way to protect public health.
• Stay home if you’re feeling unwell or if you have tested positive for COVID-19, and follow the university’s reporting guidelines.
• Keep up-to-date with the latest public-health information from the Province of Ontarioand Durham Region.

Ontario Tech continues to monitor wastewater signals, public-health indicators and the developing situation in Durham Region to make informed, science-based decisions about its operations. The university will adjust its operations or health and safety measures as necessary to keep its campus safe.