Today, Queen’s University announced that it will require all students, staff, and faculty returning to campus to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Students, staff and faculty will need to be fully vaccinated or have a plan to do so, by Sept. 7. This requirement will also apply to all visitors to the Queen's campus.

“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,” says Patrick Deane, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. “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 accessing campus or other university property who have not been fully vaccinated will be required to undertake additional health and safety protocols and COVID-19 testing. Queen’s will review accommodation needs for those who are unable to get vaccinated for medical or other reasons related to grounds protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Information about vaccination availability is provided on the KFL&A Public Health website.

Further details and updates will be provided, including information for students entering residence, on the Safe Return to Campus website as they become available. For information on protocols for varsity athletes and affiliated staff, please refer to the Queen's University Athletics and Recreation website.

For additional information visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

Originally published in Queen's Gazette

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