Questions?
Please email coronavirus@uwaterloo.ca.
University of Waterloo information on COVID-19
Last updated: November 20, 2023
Latest updates
Access rapid antigen tests now
Rapid Antigen tests are conveniently available at the Turnkey Desk in the Student Life Centre for the current UWaterloo Community. Campus Housing also offers these tests for resident students - simply inquire at the Residence Front Desk.
Please note: these tests are designed for symptomatic individuals and are not meant for general screening. It's crucial to be aware that rapid antigen tests may sometimes yield false negatives. If you're experiencing symptoms and receive a negative result, complete the Ontario self-assessment at Self-assessment and adhere to the provided guidance.
Ensure safety for yourself and others by maintaining frequent hand hygiene, wearing masks if unwell, and staying home when necessary.
Read the full memos for undergraduate students, employees and graduate students, and instructors.
Do your part
- Get a booster dose when you are eligible, and make sure eligible children receive their boosters as well.
- If you need to book a booster dose you can do so with Health Services and there are many online resources to help you find available shots, such as the Region of Waterloo, Vaccine Ontario or Vaccine Hunters.
- Masks are not required but are encouraged, especially in large gatherings. Wear a mask that fits well, has multiple layers, and has an effective filter layer. Wherever you go, please always follow the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) recommendations on masks.
- Limit your contact with other people and stay home if you have any symptoms of COVID-19. You can take this self-assessment if you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms.
Help is available
Students: We understand that many of our students have family members in areas affected by COVID-19. If you feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk to somebody, please contact the University’s Campus Wellness services, either Health or Counselling Services.
Employees: Our Employee and Family Assistance Program is available 24/7 for counselling, coaching and support. Call 1-800-663-1142 or visit Homeweb.ca.
If you are in crisis, feeling unsafe, or worried you might hurt yourself or others:
- call 911 if you are experiencing a life-threatening issue
- Counselling Services – 519-888-4567 ext. 42655.
- Grand River Hospital – 519-749-4300
- St. Mary's Hospital – 519-744-3311
- Empower Me, Mental Health Resources – 1-833-628-5589
- Counseling available via phone, video, and in person
- Available 24/7, 365 days in 22 countries worldwide
- Non-emergency Waterloo Regional Police Services – 519-653-770
Quick links
Travel advice
University resources
Community resources
Questions?
If you have questions about Waterloo's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please email coronavirus@uwaterloo.ca.
News
- Nov. 20, 2023Access rapid antigen tests now
Rapid Antigen tests are conveniently available at the Turnkey Desk in the Student Life Centre for the current UWaterloo Community. Campus Housing also offers these tests for resident students - simply inquire at the Residence Front Desk.
- Nov. 17, 2023Q and A with the Experts: RSV prevention for vulnerable populations
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that seriously affects vulnerable populations such as infants, young children and older adults. Dr. Wasem Alsabbagh, associate professor at the University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy, answers frequently asked questions about RSV.
Why should I be concerned about RSV?
RSV is the leading cause of respiratory tract infections and hospitalizations among infants in Canada. About 80% of children who are hospitalized with bronchitis have RSV, while 20% of infants hospitalized with pneumonia have RSV.
- Sep. 8, 2023Q and A with the experts: How can we protect our health this fall virus season?
By Angelica Marie Sanchez. This is an excerpt of an article that originally appeared on Waterloo News.
The fall season means an increased risk of respiratory illness as we spend more time indoors with groups of family and friends. We can help protect ourselves and others by getting the flu vaccine and a booster shot for COVID-19 as cases for new variants rise globally.