Université Sainte-Anne joins other schools in COVID vaccine, testing mandate

Université Sainte-Anne becomes the latest Nova Scotia post-secondary school to announce its COVID-19 plans for the upcoming fall term.

The French-language university announced its plans on Tuesday, mandating that students and staff must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or undergo rapid testing twice a week.

“As we learn to live with COVID-19 and adapt to the new variants that are circulating, Université Sainte-Anne wants to do what we can to ensure that the health and safety of the university community remains a priority,” spokesperson Rachelle LeBlanc says in a news release.

The new vaccine and testing requirements take effect on Oct. 15.

Those who choose not to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will have to provide proof of their test results.

Rapid testing will be available at the university's Halifax and Church Point campuses for those who are asymptomatic; it'll be encouraged for everyone regardless of vaccination status.

“Wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing, and frequent hand washing and sanitizing are requirements that remain in effect across our campuses,” LeBlanc says.

The announcement comes after other Nova Scotia post-secondary schools updated their COVID-19 plan for the upcoming semester.

Dalhousie University and the University of King's College, Saint Mary's University, Mount Saint Vincent University, NSCAD University and NSCC have all announced similar COVID-19 plans.

Nova Scotia hasn't officially entered a fourth COVID-19 wave, but chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang said it's inevitable for the province.

There are currently 65 active COVID-19 cases in Nova Scotia.