On Aug. 12, Queen’s announced they will be requiring all students, staff, and faculty returning to campus in the Fall to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

According to the University, individuals will need to be fully immunized or have plans to get vaccinated by Sept. 7.

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, the health and safety of our campus and Kingston communities has been our top priority. We know from medical science that ensuring high vaccination rates is the most effective way to mitigate a fourth wave and to best safeguard our anticipated full return to campus,” Principal Patrick Deane said in a press release.

“We have made these decisions based on the advice of, and in consultation with, medical and public health experts, and feel strongly that our Queen’s community will do its part to support these efforts for the common good.”

Individuals who have not been fully vaccinated and are accessing campus or other university property will be required to take additional health and safety protocols, such as COVID-19 testing, as required by Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Public Health measures.

The university will be reviewing accommodations for those who are unable to get vaccinated for medical or other reasons related to grounds protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

The press release added more details will be provided, including information pertaining to students living and/or working in residence.

A recent announcement made by Student Wellness Services stated that the university will offer a walk-in vaccination clinic at Richardson Stadium from Sept. 1 to 4. Walk-in appointments will be available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 The clinic will vaccinate any Queen’s students who need their first dose or are eligible for their second dose. Students attending the clinic must wear a face covering and are encouraged to bring a provincial/territorial health card or UHIP card if they are able.

The Journal reached out to the University inquiring about how the institution plans to enforce its vaccination requirement for in-person activities this fall but has yet to receive a response.  

On Aug. 26, the University announced all individuals intending to participate in in-person university activities this fall must attest to receiving a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine recognized by Health Canada or the World Health Organization (WHO). This attestation must be made via an “online tool” expected to launch Sept. 1.

Those returning to campus will also be required to upload proof of their vaccination status to the same online tool.

The University also stated students, staff, and faculty are required to receive their final dose of vaccine by Oct. 15.

Individuals aren’t considered fully vaccinated until 14 days after their second or final dose.

Those not fully vaccinated because of an approved accommodated need and those awaiting their second or final dose will be required to adhere to additional health and safety measures, including twice-weekly rapid testing.

Unvaccinated individuals without an approved accommodation will not be allowed to attend campus or participate in any in-person activity. 

This story is developing and will be updated with more information.