Protection from COVID-19 and other respiratory illness

COVID-19 antiviral treatment screener 

Vaccination – The McMaster University vaccination policies are no longer in effect. The MacCheck application for vaccination confirmation has been discontinued.

Positive Case Reporting – Positive COVID-19 case reporting is no longer required through Mosaic. Please note that individuals should continue to self-screen using the Ontario COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool and follow appropriate directions if experiencing any symptoms of illness.

Masking – the University will continue to support masking for individuals who choose to wear one. Masks can be made available by contacting University Health and Safety (eohss@mcmaster.ca) or the Faculty of Health Sciences Safety Office (fhsso@mcmaster.ca).  Note that masks may be mandatory in specific Faculty of Health Sciences work locations. 

Hand hygiene is one of the most important ways to reduce risk of ilness. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

For more information, visit the Public Health Ontario resource page for Hand Hygiene.

Many common illnesses such as the flu can be spread by coughing and sneezing. Individuals who touch contaminated surfaces and then bring their hands to their face may be at risk. You should always cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm and not your hand.

For more information, visit the Public Health Ontario resource page for Covering Your Cough.

Personal health screening has really been highlighted due to COVID-19. It is extremely important to screen yourself and stay home if you are feeling unwell in any way. This will help to prevent the spread of illness to others.

Note that the Ontario COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool should still be completed if you are experiencing any symptoms of illness. Appropriate direction should be followed after completion of the assessment tool.

Immunizations can be an effective way to reduce your risk and to prevent the spread of communicable illnesses. There are many immunizations available to protect against preventable illnesses including ‘flu shots’ and COVID-19 vaccines.

Specific immunizations may be required depending on your work location, nature of your role, or course requirements.  Please speak to your supervisor for further information about what may be required for your work location.

For more information on immunizations, visit the Province of Ontario resource page for Vaccines and immunization.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Maintain distance where possible from individuals who appear to be ill.

Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

Masks are available to members of the University community at no cost. If you would like a mask or would like to understand where they are currently available, please contact University Health and Safety (eohss@mcmaster.ca) or the Faculty of Health Sciences Safety Office (fhsso@mcmaster.ca).