Effective Monday, May 30,  Durham College (DC) is suspending masking requirements for entry to the Oshawa and Whitby campus buildings.

We appreciate that everyone’s circumstances are unique, and some will continue to wear a mask for personal reasons. DC is a mask-friendly college, and those who choose to wear one are respected for their decision. Public Health advises that mask-wearing and hand hygiene are effective against the spread of COVID-19 variants.

As we’ve learned throughout the past two years, the virus spread and pandemic restrictions are ever-evolving. We regularly consult with public health authorities and monitor the province’s guidelines, and our health and safety decisions are contingent on current public health conditions and directions. Should the situation in Ontario change, we may need to reinstate some decisions on short notice. Should that occur, we will communicate any changes as soon as possible.

We encourage our campus community members to remain vigilant in managing your health and well-being and appreciate your ongoing cooperation and diligence.

Important reminders:

• Remain up-to-date on boosters when eligible. Vaccination remains the best protection against the worst effects of COVID-19 and its variants and is the most important way to protect public health.
• Those who wish to continue to wear a mask are encouraged to do so.
• Continue to maintain physical distancing wherever possible.
• All those coming to campus are responsible to self-monitor closely for COVID-19 symptoms. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive, do not come to campus and follow the steps outlined on our COVID-related illness reporting page.
• DC’s response to COVID-19 can be found on our COVID-19 webpage.