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Enhanced Public Health and Hygiene Protocols for Residential Year 2021-22

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In view of the fluid nature of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the University is introducing enhanced public health and hygiene protocols for the return to full occupancy of the student halls, colleges and residencies in residential year 2021-22. From August 25, 2021, all residents will be required either (i) to have completed vaccination against COVID-19, or (ii) to take a self-paid COVID-19 antigen test on a weekly basis until further notice from the University. The HKSAR Government’s list of recognized COVID-19 vaccines can be accessed at https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/list_of_recognised_covid19_vaccines.pdf.

Acceptance of the offer of a residential place in 2021-22 entails compliance with this University requirement and any other infection control protocols announced during the residential year.This requirement is based on the following crucial public health considerations:

  1. Residents living in a dormitory share common areas where interaction and close contact are constant and unavoidable.
  2. Whole building quarantine may be implemented if a single case of COVID-19 infection is confirmed, since there are many shared facilities, including pantries, bathrooms and laundry rooms, where residents often do not wear masks.
  3. Vaccination provides the best preventive measure for COVID-19 infection and alleviation of disease severity for those infected.
  4. Medical benefits significantly outweigh the mostly self-resolving and transient side effects of vaccination.
  5. Severe side effects are uncommon with the two vaccines currently available in Hong Kong.
  6. Vaccination is free of charge and widely available in Hong Kong.
  7. Residence-based activities can be resumed at maximum capacity if all, or the vast majority of, residents have been vaccinated.

Further details will be announced before the start of residential year 2021-22. Also please visit the FAQ page at https://www.cedars.hku.hk/accommodation.

We look forward to welcoming you to the student residences in August. Please always stay vigilant and make personal and group health your top priority.

May 21, 2021