McGill University is implementing a rapid test pilot project on its campus for people who do not have symptoms of COVID-19. Starting next week, students, teachers and other staff will be able to get tested on a voluntary basis.
These rapid tests “come in addition to the protective measures already in place” on campuses, announces the Montreal university in a message to its community. The results are available in about 20 minutes, but if a test is positive, it will need to be confirmed by a PCR test carried out at a screening center.
As in all Quebec universities, it is not necessary to be vaccinated to take courses at McGill University. The vaccination passport is however required in libraries and for certain activities.
At some Canadian universities, however, this is a requirement, and people who are not adequately vaccinated against COVID-19 must take rapid tests to attend class. This is particularly the case at the University of Toronto.
McGill University recently set up a “resumption of activities and return committee”, in particular because of the upcoming lifting of the state of emergency by the government of Quebec, but also of the “low number of cases. On its campus, despite the fact that 85% of teaching activities resumed in person this fall.