UASU Supports Mandatory Vaccination

News Staff - Mon Sep 13, 2021

The UASU strongly supports the University administration’s decision to mandate vaccines on campus. In light of rising COVID cases (especially among young people) and renewed province-wide measures, mandatory vaccines offer the greatest available protection for students, staff, faculty, and their loved ones.

These measures come into effect on November 1st. An individual is considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving their second dose. This means students need to plan to have their first dose on or before September 26th for the Pfizer vaccine, on or before September 19th for the Moderna vaccine, in order to receive their second dose by October 17th at the latest. Vaccination records may be found on myHealth Records Alberta for free.

The UASU has consistently advocated for mandatory vaccination (or proof of a health-related exemption), particularly for students living in residence, a practice already in place at many major Canadian universities. “Requiring vaccination will go a long way toward addressing the fear that so many students feel, especially in residence,” said Talia Dixon, UASU Vice President (Student Life). “Getting fully vaccinated is the best way you can help protect other students, your professors, university staff, and yourself.”

Widespread vaccination can also safeguard those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and helps create safe opportunities to participate in campus life. A safe, responsible campus community can have an outsized impact on AHS’s ability to manage the pandemic in Edmonton and the region. By getting both doses, we can keep businesses open, keep student events happening, and keep jobs on campus.

“With 8944 entries into the Get Your Shot contest, we know that students strongly support vaccination and are eager to do their part,” said Rowan Ley, UASU President. “We need to do everything we can to prevent another last-second pivot to online instruction and keep each other safe.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

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