Latest coronavirus updates for the uOttawa community
January 31, 2020
In response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of a global health emergency due to spread of the coronavirus, the University has decided to suspend all operations in China until further notice.
As a result, all University-sponsored travel to China and all programming involving China have been suspended until further notice. The Government of Canada has also asked Canadians to avoid all non-essential travel to China due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
The University has been in contact with our students who are currently in China to ensure their well-being. We are also in contact with our students across Asia to ask that they take all possible precautionary measures.
Travel restrictions
The University recognizes that restricting travel may affect students, faculty members and staff. Students should consult their supervisor or those responsible for their program to assess potential alternatives. Faculty and staff members are encouraged to share any travel plans to Asia with their deans or directors, who will work with the International Office to provide updated information about the situation. The University will make every effort to prevent or mitigate any potential impact on academic activities.
Prevention
Symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, a cough and difficulty breathing. Should you experience these symptoms AND you or someone you have been in close contact with has recently travelled internationally to an affected region, avoid contact with others and see your health-care professional or nearest hospital.
Students, faculty members, and staff who work or study in a health-care setting should follow the directions provided by the facility. Hospital environments are well equipped and have proper measures in place.
International students
International students who have questions should contact the University’s International Office and are also reminded that services, such as counselling, are available should they need any assistance.
Next steps
The University of Ottawa will continue to monitor the latest developments in Canada and around the world and to assess any further steps required to protect the health and safety of our community.
The University appreciates the solidarity and mutual respect shown by its community members during this uncertain time.
About the coronavirus:
Government of Canada Public Health Agency
Ontario Public Health
Travel guidance/advice:
Government of Canada Travel Advice
UPDATE: Message to the University community about the coronavirus
January 27, 2020
Over the past few days, public health officials have reported one confirmed case and one presumptive case of coronavirus infection in Ontario. These authorities have stated that the risks of contracting the virus remain low nonetheless.
The University of Ottawa continues to monitor the situation closely. We encourage you to check the updates issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada and by the Government of Ontario.
The Government of Canada recommends that travellers avoid all non-essential travel to Hubei province in China, including to the cities of Wuhan, Huanggang and Ezhou, due to the heavy travel restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus. We strongly recommend that members of the University community enrol in the federal government’s Registration of Canadians Abroad program if they intend to travel.
Symptoms of this coronavirus include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing these symptoms and have recently travelled outside the country, avoid all contact with others and immediately contact your doctor or the nearest hospital.
Prevention
Here are a few ways to limit the spread of the virus:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
The University will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves and will provide updates as required.
For more information on symptoms, travel advisories, and what you can do to protect yourself, visit the following websites:
About the Coronavirus:
Travel Guidance/Advice: Government of Canada Travel Advice
Message to the community regarding the Coronavirus
January 24, 2020
The University of Ottawa is closely monitoring the situation regarding the Coronavirus infection in Asia, as new cases are being reported in China and other countries.
Information regarding the Coronavirus is continually updated by various public health organizations. At present, the World Health Organization has not declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
To date, there have been no reported cases in Canada. The Public Health Agency of Canada has assessed the public health risk associated with the Coronavirus as low for Canada and for Canadian travelers. Global Affairs Canada recommends to avoid non-essential travel to the province of Hubei, including the cities of Wuhan, Huanggang and Ezhou, due to the imposition of heavy travel restrictions in order to limit the spread of a novel coronavirus. We strongly recommend to members of the uOttawa to register to the Registration of Canadian Abroad service before leaving Canada.
Prevention
There are steps you can take to prevent the spread of viruses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Clean hard surfaces in shared spaces with disinfectant
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
As during any flu season, if you feel sick, follow the usual best practices:
- Stay home
- Avoid close contact with others
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and then throw the tissue away and wash your hands, or cough/sneeze into your elbow
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- If your symptoms escalate, contact your health care provider or Health Services.
The University will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and provide updates on the intranet if needed.at some point.
For information on how to protect yourself, symptoms, and current travel advice, please refer to the following sites:
About the Coronavirus:
Government of Canada Public Health Agency
U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Travel Guidance/Advice:
Government of Canada Travel Advice