McMaster University, Mohawk College, Niagara College to require proof of vaccination

McMaster University, Mohawk College, and Niagara College are the latest post-secondary institutions to require mandatory vaccinations for anyone attending campus in-person this fall.

The schools announced their decisions on Monday.

Officials said starting Sept. 7, all employees, students, contractors, and visitors attending campus or using on-site facilities will be required to confirm that they are fully vaccinated or have received at least one dose of a Health Canada or World Health Organization approved vaccine.

The new policies state the second dose should be received by mid-October.

McMaster says proof of vaccination will have to be uploaded to a system currently being developed that will allow for uploading and validation of proof of vaccination and testing.

“Health information will be secure and will be kept confidentially within the university with very limited access,” said David Farrar, McMaster University President, and Vice-Chancellor, in a letter posted on the school’s website. “We know that vaccinations combined with public health measures like physical distancing, wearing masks, washing your hands, and staying home if you don’t feel well are the best defenses against COVID. Our recent surveys showed 94% of students and 93% of faculty and staff who responded said that they will be vaccinated by the beginning of term. These additional measures support what our community is telling us is a strong commitment to vaccination.”

For Mohawk, the college will provide details on the process for submitting proof of vaccination by early next week.

“In an effort to support you through this process, we will be hosting vaccination clinics for people who still need to be vaccinated. You will find dates and times for those services posted on our website in the coming days,” said Ron J. McKerlie, Mohawk College President & CEO in a written message. “This decision has been made to maintain a healthy and safe environment for everyone to learn, teach and work in-person at the college as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.”

Niagara College says the new policy comes after close monitoring of COVID trends and consultation with public health authorities. “With the recent rise in cases, including variants of concern, vaccination rates and increased access to vaccines, requiring vaccination for on-campus study and work is a significant step in ensuring the safety of the Niagara College community, and it helps to bring the college closer to an eventual full return to campus,” states a news release on its website.

Brock University previously announced it would require COVID-19 vaccination for all students, faculty, staff and visitors who wish to access campus this fall.

Brock officials said early results of a survey sent to students indicate the vast majority — more than 90 percent — are already vaccinated against COVID-19 or intend to be by the beginning of the Fall Term.