University of Waterloo information on COVID-19

Last updated: January 5, 2023

Latest updates

January 5 - Winter term: masks strongly recommended but optional 

• Starting January 9, a mask requirement will not continue but we strongly encourage you to think of the people around you and help limit the spread of COVID by wearing a mask in indoor settings.
• As always, we will not hesitate to bring back a requirement to wear masks if the situation requires it at any point during the term. 

Read the full memos for undergraduate students, employees and graduate students, and instructors.

Do your part

• Get a booster dose as soon as possible, and make sure eligible children are vaccinated as soon as possible. Many more appointments are available now than previously.
  • 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. 

  • If you are an international student and you have questions about vaccinations, you can contact ise@uwaterloo.ca.  

• 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

Questions?

If you have questions about Waterloo's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please email coronavirus@uwaterloo.ca.