Western University officials have released a back-to-school plan which includes some changes to its COVID-19 vaccination and face mask policies.
On Monday the university said the revised policy is similar to last fall by requiring students, faculty and staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, the university will now also require that students, faculty, staff and some visitors have at least one booster shot [three doses minimum, any combination], they must also wear medical-grade face masks while inside classrooms and seminar rooms.
Students, faculty, and staff will have until October 1, 2022, to submit current proof of vaccination to the university. Students moving into any on-campus residence are being asked to get their booster shots before moving in. Western said it will offer a two-week grace period and easy access to the campus vaccine clinic for those unable to get a booster before they arrive.
International students must follow vaccination requirements for entry to Canada laid out by the federal government.
"While we can’t predict when the next wave of COVID-19 might come, we believe these measures will help us protect the in-person experience that Western is known for," said Provost and Academic Vice-President Florentine Strzelczyk. "We want to do everything we can to offer our students a great on-campus experience throughout the academic year."
In the spring, Western lifted indoor masking requirements after the provincial government removed the mandate in most indoor public settings.
The university said it will reassess the need for masking beyond Thanksgiving, with the goal to lift the mandate as soon as possible.
Western acknowledged that while other post-secondary institutions may have alternative health and safety approaches, it believes these policies are the best approach to support a healthy community on campus.
"Together, these measures will help us deliver on our academic and research missions and proceed with plans for in-person classes and events this fall," said Strzelczyk. "As always, we will continue to monitor COVID-19 transmission and adjust our plans as needed."
Last week, Fanshawe College said it would not be reintroducing mandatory masking or vaccine requirements. Fanshawe said it is encouraging staff and students to wear masks indoors and stay up to date on recommended doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The fall semester at Western is set to resume on Thursday, September 8.