How can I do my part?
The COVID-19 pandemic provides new challenges as we navigate caring for our community.
Face coverings slow the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the transmission of respiratory droplets. They are especially important when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
ASTM F2100 Level 2 medical-grade masks are required in all public and common spaces inside Queen’s University buildings until May 31, 2022.
Some staff, faculty, students, and visitors may choose to continue to wear masks on campus. Please demonstrate consideration and respect for individual choices.
Queen’s will consult with public health experts to review the need to reinstate the mask mandate, along with other preparations for the fall, in late summer.
Physical distancing refers to staying 2 metres (6 feet) away from anyone not in your household or social circle. By staying 2 metres (6 feet) apart, respiratory droplets are less likely to reach others, therefore slowing the spread of COVID-19.
Physical distancing is especially hard to maintain at large gatherings or parties. Parties accounted for a notable number of COVID-19 outbreaks in Canada.
Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms (e.g., cough, fever, fatigue). If you developed COVID-19 symptoms, get tested. If you do not have a rapid antigen test kit, visit the Ontario rapid test locator website to determine the closet store to you that distributes free test kits. Stay home from school and/or work when you feel ill. If you need to self-isolate, review the steps at KFL&A Public Health.
Review the Know your Student Household COVID-19 Plan for tips on preparing to self-isolate.
Why should I do my part?
To return to fully open businesses, schools, and events, following public health recommendations is vital. We all need to do our part to protect ourselves and our communities. We, as individuals, play a key role in the community’s overall wellbeing. The more we help contain the spread of COVID-19, the faster any restrictions will be lifted.
What challenges do I face?
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes to our day-to-day lives. As we continue to adjust to these changes, it can be challenging to remember developing public health recommendations.
This challenge is substantially increased when a person is intoxicated. The consumption of alcohol has been directly linked to lowered compliance with public health recommendations. People who are intoxicated are less likely to wear their face covering (properly or at all) or maintain physical distancing.
Another challenge has been termed “COVID-19 fatigue.” Public health officials recognize that the recommendations place a burden on individuals, especially as the pandemic is on-going. It is important to take care of your mental and social wellbeing so that you don’t give in to COVID-19 fatigue.
Non-compliance can lead to the community spread of COVID-19. More spread means more restrictions.
What happens if I don’t do my part?
Queen’s University takes the safety of its community very seriously. The non-academic misconduct process is one tool to help address non-compliance with COVID-19 regulations.
On-campus
Students who are reported as not complying with the Queen’s University COVID-19 safety protocols may be subject to the non-academic misconduct process under the Student Code of Conduct.
Off-campus
Students who are reported as not complying with COVID-19 public health recommendations may be subject to the non-academic misconduct process under the Student Code of Conduct, especially if the safety of a Queen’s community member is threatened.