The Public Health Agency of Canada recently declared a flu epidemic that, coupled with COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, is stressing the health-care system. There are easy steps we can all take to help keep ourselves and our community healthy.
Looking ahead to the end of the semester
Remember: Getting sick could mean missing tests or final exams and important course work. Take care of yourself! If you are sick, please stay home and get the care you need. We understand and will work with you to help you through.
If you miss an exam or final assignment due date because you’re sick, contact your Program Counselling Office.
Check out resources from Student Wellness on how to avoid getting sick and how to support your immune system.
Flu shots and COVID-19 vaccinations
This year’s flu season is the most severe in over a decade. Getting vaccinated is an effective way to protect yourself, avoid serious illness and prevent disruption of your on-campus activities. U of G strongly encourages everyone to get the flu shot and to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination and booster doses.
At the Guelph campus, flu shots and COVID-19 vaccination and booster doses are available in Student Health Services – check their website for hours. You can receive both your flu shot and your COVID-19 vaccine or booster at the same time.
In Ridgetown, flu shots are available by appointment or drop-in at the Ridgetown Shoppers Drug Mart. COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are available at Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Blenheim and Chatham.
Please wear a mask indoors to help keep yourself and others safe
With the surge in respiratory illnesses, the province has reiterated that Ontarians should mask up while inside. The University supports this position and, following the Canadian Medical Officer of Health’s recommendations, strongly encourages you to wear a mask.
Please wear a mask while indoors at U of G, particularly while writing exams.
If you are sick, stay home. If you have COVID-19, a cough or any symptoms of a respiratory illness of any kind, you must wear a mask in all public settings for 10 days following the start of your symptoms.
Wearing a mask is an important layer of protection from respiratory viruses. So are washing your hands, staying home when you are sick and covering your coughs and sneezes.
U of G provides “Masks Up” spaces where students can study while knowing that those around them will be masked. Find a list of Masks Up spaces on the COVID-19 website. Masks are required when visiting Student Health Services.
What to do if you’re sick
Whenever you’re feeling sick, whether you think it’s COVID or not, stay home. Our What to do if you’re sick page has info on steps to take if you’re feeling sick or have been exposed to COVID-19.
U of G’s COVID-19 website is your best source of information on the University’s response to COVID-19.