University of Alberta to mandate rapid testing on campus for unvaccinated

Edmonton -

Three Alberta universities say they will adopt a new set of protocols for campus visitors that include masking for all public indoor areas and rapid testing for those who are unvaccinated.

The University of Alberta, University of Calgary and University of Lethbridge are all adopting the plan, citing "the shared goal of offering a safe teaching, learning, living working, and research environment." 

"We recognize the urgent need for additional measures within our campus communities," said Bill Flanagan, president of the University of Alberta.

The new protocols outline new rules around rapid testing, masking and isolating:

• Regular rapid testing for all campus visitors except those who are fully vaccinated
• Masks to be worn in all public indoor areas on campus where physical distancing is not possible
• Those with COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test result must isolate for 10 days or until a negative test

The new policies come into effect in September.

"I think most students are incredibly relieved," said Rowan Ley, president of the University of Alberta Students' Union.

"A lot of students were scared honestly. Many didn't feel comfortable coming."

The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and Macewan University said Tuesday they are still finalizing health measures for the upcoming term.

Universities in Ontario have taken on stricter measures by making vaccinations mandatory for those returning to campus. 

The University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina have adopted similar policies for campus access.

Post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada are maintaining policies encouraging students to be vaccinated, stopping short of making it a requirement.