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The University of Alberta is requiring regular rapid COVID-19 testing for those not fully vaccinated and masks to be worn in indoor public spaces as part of its public health measures for the fall return to campus.
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In a joint statement issued Tuesday, the University of Alberta, along with the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge will require those who are not fully vaccinated or do not wish to disclose their vaccination status, to undergo regular rapid testing beginning Sept. 1. They must receive a negative result before resuming in-person activities.
Postmedia has reached out to the University of Alberta for clarification on how often rapid testing will be done and how it will be offered to those coming to campus.
“Vaccine clinics are being planned for campuses,” the statement reads. “Everyone is urged to become fully vaccinated as soon as possible if they want to be able to attend campus without having to complete ongoing rapid testing throughout the term.”
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The university will also require non-medical face masks to be worn in all public indoor areas on campus where physical distancing is not required.
Masks will not be necessary to be worn when working alone in private offices, working outdoors and there is a minimum of two metres between people, meeting indoors and there is a minimum of two metres between people, working alone in a shared space, working in a cubicle with plexiglass, wall, or other approved barrier between people and when not providing services to anyone, and in a classroom where there is a minimum of two metres between the instructor or among students.
Those who have symptoms of COVID-19 or a positive test to self-isolate for 10 days will also be required to self-isolate for 10 days.
“A safe return to campus in the fall remains our top priority, and in a rapidly changing situation, we recognize the urgent need for additional measures within our campus communities,” said Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor of the U of A in the statement.
“I am pleased to cooperate with the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge on these policies—our shared commitment is to our students, faculty and staff and to put in place the precautions necessary to ensure a safe environment for in-person teaching and learning.”
More to come.
