Updates for the U of A community, week ending September 24

24 September 2021

Posted: September 24, 4:30 p.m.

World Health Organization approved vaccines recognized in Alberta

Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health updated the province’s definition of who it considers fully vaccinated to recognize World Health Organization (WHO) approved vaccines. This brings welcomed news for some international students and employees who may have already received a full set of COVID-19 vaccines outside of Canada. Learn more about how this impacts U of A community members

Updates to U of A rapid testing requirements & program

Between now and October 31, all individuals coming to U of A campuses are expected to have at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccination and should be prepared to show their proof of vaccination if requested. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated must undergo rapid testing within 72 hours before arriving on campus and have a negative test result. More information about our rapid testing requirements for students, employees and visitors is available here

Sharing proof of vaccination - coming October 1 through MyUAlberta

As of October 1, students, faculty and staff will be able to use an updated version of the MyUAlberta app to upload their proof of vaccination. If you already have the app, be sure to update it on October 1. If you don’t have the app yet, you can download it free for use on Android and iOS devices. More details on vaccination verification will be shared next week when the app is updated and the new desktop version is available. 

Updated isolation requirements for household contacts

As updated by the Government of Alberta on September 23, if you are an unvaccinated household contact (see definition) of a case of COVID-19 you should stay home for 14 days from the last day of exposure and monitor for symptoms. In turn, U of A COVID-19 rapid response procedures now require unvaccinated household contacts not to come to U of A campuses for at least 14 days. Learn more about requirements for household contacts of a COVID-19 case.

Safety measure reminders 

The volume and scope of information about COVID-19 that we see every day can be overwhelming. For essential health and safety information as it relates to our campuses, visit the U of A’s COVID-19 website for the latest information. If you see anyone who may have forgotten a mask, etc., a gentle reminder is often helpful and appreciated. To help keep each other safe, remember to wear a mask, wash and sanitize your hands regularly, and stay home when you are feeling unwell.

General inquiries: U of A Public Health Response Team, phrtinfo@ualberta.ca