Health and Wellness

As we prepare for the summer and fall 2023 semesters, our Forward Niagara team continues to follow guidelines and protocols provided by Health Canada, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Ontario’s Ministry of Health and York Region Public Health. The team is also monitoring what is happening on campus and in the community so that we can respond quickly if the risk of transmission increases on the Niagara University campus and/or within the York Region and the Greater Toronto Area.

We are continuing to focus on promoting healthy habits such as proper hand washing, masking, and social distancing as necessary, as well as the following protocols.

Vaccines

Vaccines against COVID-19 are safe and effective. They teach our immune system to fight the virus that causes COVID-19. These vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Getting vaccinated is the best way to slow the spread of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).

Although proof of vaccination is not required of students, faculty and staff, it is strongly recommended that all members of our community keep their vaccinations up to date.

Please note that some Niagara University Ontario external partners may require COVID-19 vaccination for entry into locations or participation in programs. This may include but is not limited to school districts, healthcare entities, and other provincial facilities.

Masks

Masks are optional on campus, both in indoor and outdoor settings. However, people are welcome to wear masks at any time and we ask that you respect their personal decision.

For BPS students, it is strongly recommended that you wear a mask on campus to minimize the risk of having your classroom placements disrupted due to exposure to COVID-19.

Disposable surgical masks will be available at the front desk reception.

Please note that mask requirements may be reinstated on short notice in the event public health guidance or recommendations change. 

What to do if you feel unwell

For your own health and out of the respect of others, if you feel unwell, please do not come to campus.  If you are on campus, please leave as soon as possible.

• For minor symptoms, you can isolate while you seek guidance from your primary care provider such as your family doctor or nurse practitioner. There are three Walk-In Clinics about 4 kilometers west of the Vaughan campus on Hwy 7:
• Woodbridge Urgent Care Centre: 4000 Hwy 7: Book an appointment: 905-851-3777
• Well Medica Woodbridge: 55-7600 Weston Road: book an appointment online
• MCI the Doctor’s Office: 200 Windflower Gate: book an appointment online

You can also Call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 for information and advice from a registered nurse.

• For medical emergencies call 9-1-1 immediately or go to the Emergency Department. The Emergency Department at the Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital is 9 kilometers north of the Vaughan campus at 3200 Major MacKenzie Dr. West.
• For urgent treatment of minor illnesses, but not an emergency, please go to an Urgent Care Centre. This includes treatment for nausea, sports injuries or sprains, and ear, nose, throat and eye problems. 

There is an Urgent Care Centre located at 9401 Jane Street, 6 kilometers north of the Vaughan campus directly across from the Maple Auto Mall. Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday: 4-10 p.m. and Weekends/Holidays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

What to do if you test positive for COVID-19, have symptoms or exposure

Click here for the latest guidance from York Region Public Health.

Free rapid antigen COVID-19 tests are available from participating pharmacies and grocery stores. Click here for the province’s online test locator tool.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and flexibility in following our protocols to ensure the health and safety of our campus community. If you have questions, please email Sung Nahm, Executive Director of Campus Operations and Administration at nahm@niagara.edu.