U of S to require proof of vaccination in winter term, won’t accept negative test results

The University of Saskatchewan is changing its vaccination requirements for the winter term.

In a letter to the university community Thursday, U of S president Peter Stoicheff said starting Jan. 4, anyone going on the campus or in the university’s workplaces will need to show proof they’re fully vaccinated. Negative test results will no longer be accepted from those who aren’t vaccinated or have chosen not to disclose their vaccination status.

Stoicheff said the decision was made so the school could “safely offer more in-person instruction and campus activities.”

“The fall term has been a transitional term to more in-person activity anticipated for 2022 winter term and beyond,” Stoicheff said in the letter. “Fall term has demonstrated that our measures and guidelines have been effective at minimizing on-campus transmission of COVID-19, particularly the vaccination requirement introduced earlier this fall.

“USask’s vaccination rates are outstanding, with 99 per cent of faculty, 96 per cent of students, and 95 per cent of staff now fully vaccinated.”

The new policy means those who aren’t vaccinated or who won’t disclose their vaccination status can’t go to classrooms, offices, buildings, libraries, dining facilities or Huskies sports events on campus. Vendors and contractors also are covered by the policy.

With in-person, on-campus activities to pick up in the winter, the university sought advice from public health officials. They said vaccination is the best option to reduce the spread of COVID, while testing protocols “are not preventive but reactive, and should only be used in situations where vaccination is not an option.”

Those who have received two doses won’t have to do anything in response to the change, but they will have to show proof again after getting their third shot.

“We understand that some individuals are not able to be fully vaccinated on grounds that are protected in The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code,” the letter said. “The university will continue to consider accommodations requests for these individuals in accordance with the requirements of the Code.

“Previously approved accommodations will continue through the winter term, and those individuals receiving them will need to continue submitting regular negative test results. Only those with an approved accommodation, as appropriate and in limited circumstance, will be allowed on campus without being fully vaccinated.”

Anyone who chooses not to get vaccinated or to disclose their vaccination status by Jan. 4 will have to work or study online if that’s possible.

Other requirements such as indoor masks and enhanced cleaning also will continue.