Queen’s University has reversed course on its decision to ease masking rules at the end of the winter semester. The university has decided to extend its campus wide masking mandate until at least the end of May 2022.
The announcement comes as the federal government confirms that there is a 6th COVID-19 wave in Ontario. Kingston also has the highest COVID-19 cases rate in Ontario, according to wastewater monitoring by Ontario’s COVID-19 Science Advisory Table.
“Masking is one of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. With this in mind, the university has decided to extend the masking requirement until the end of May 2022 at which time it will review the continuation of the requirement,” wrote Queen’s University on its Safe Return Website.
According to its press release, the action is being taken for the wellbeing of their employees and “to help ensure the university can continue to deliver safely on its academic mission throughout the spring.”
The announcement means that anyone taking part in on campus activities will be required to wear ASTM F2100 Level 2 medical-grade masks while indoors. Queen’s is also asking students to ensure that they receive all recommended vaccinations.
“Queen’s also continues to strongly encourage everyone to receive updated vaccinations and boosters, as these remain the best way to protect yourself and the community against serious illness from COVID-19,” wrote Queen’s in a press release.