Western University will require vaccines for students in residence

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: HANNAH THEODORE
Western University is making plans for a full return to in-person learning.

Students who want to live in a residence at Western University and its affiliate colleges will be required to have at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

On Thursday, Western announced that it was preparing for a full return to in-person classes in the fall.

Students living in residences at Western University, as well as Brescia, Huron, and King’s College will all be required to have at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

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According to the university, students will need to be vaccinated before they arrive on campus. However, those who can’t access the jab ahead of time will have 14 days following their move-in date to get vaccinated. Anyone with medical exemptions will be allowed to request accommodation.

To help with the rollout, on-campus vaccination clinics for staff, students, and faculty will be available beginning later this summer.

“The health of our community is a shared responsibility,” said Western President, Alan Shepard in a statement. “We’re asking students to play an important role in keeping themselves, their friends and classmates, and our community safe and healthy.”

The university will also continue some health and safety measures, including masking, social distancing, and self-screening requirements.

However, Shepard noted that the plan for a return to in-person classes and activities is subject to change based on vaccine supply, as well as provincial and public health requirements.

Students staying in residence will receive more information in the coming days.