The University of Guelph is continually monitoring developments relating to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The health and safety of our students, staff and faculty is a top priority for the University. The Public Health Agency of Canada has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada. There are currently no cases of COVID-19 at any U of G campuses or research stations.

Staying informed

The University's COVID-19 webpage on the U of G intranet has updates, answers to frequently asked questions and general information about COVID-19. This page will be updated as new information is available.

How the University is preparing

The University has a robust pandemic plan and is in the process of developing continuity plans to maintain academic and administrative operations should an outbreak occur locally.

Our emergency operations committee is meeting regularly to assess the situation and adjust plans as needed. The committee is chaired by Don O'Leary, vice-president (finance, administration and risk) and includes representatives from key academic and administrative units. A representative from Guelph Wellington Dufferin Public Health and some of U of G's own epidemiology experts are invited to attend the committee's meetings. 

The group discusses possible scenarios, how the University will address each scenario, and how information will be communicated with our community.

The committee is currently focused on plans for:

• Providing support for those affected: containment, health in student residences, counselling, etc.
   
• Academic continuity: maintaining accessibility to classes or course material, supporting international students and those studying abroad, etc.
   
• Business continuity: employee absenteeism, campus safety, service continuity, building maintenance, education and training about the virus, animal care, research continuity, IT services, etc.
   
• Communication: keeping the University community informed

How you can help

The most important way you can help prevent the spread of any virus is to stay home if you are not feeling well and avoid interaction with others. 

Our COVID-19 webpage explains steps to take if you have recently travelled to an area where the coronavirus is prevalent.

You can help stop the spread of viruses by:

•    Washing your hands often with soap and water

•    Not touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands

•    Not sharing personal items

•    Cleaning hard surfaces in shared spaces with disinfectant

•    Avoiding close contact with people who are sick

Faculty and staff with flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough and difficulty breathing, should contact their health care providers. Students with symptoms should contact Student Health Services at 519-824-4120, Ext. 52131.