This update is provided for archival purposes only.
Public Health guidance and University of Waterloo operations may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our COVID-19 frequently asked questions.
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.
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.
With the return of students to the University for the fall term, you should be aware that respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza continue to circulate in our community both on-campus and off.
The COVID-19 virus continues to mutate, with scientists and public health experts sounding caution over new virulent variants such as EG.5 and BA.2.86 that could give rise to increased case counts this fall.
A message from Vivek Goel, President and Vice-Chancellor and James W.E. Rush, Vice-President, Academic & Provost.
In two weeks’ time we will begin a new academic year, welcoming new and returning students to our campuses. Over the summer we’ve kept up-to-date with the latest data from Ontario’s Science Table on COVID-19 and with colleagues in public health to inform our plans for the health and safety of our campuses this Fall.
Today, we’re making the decision to suspend our mask requirement after June 30. In addition to the lifting of provincial and municipal mask requirements noted above, this decision is also consistent with a variety of indicators including campus data, case counts, test positivity rates, local hospitalization and wastewater data, and consulting public health guidance.
We’ve all seen the value of wearing a mask to help limit the spread of a variety of diseases from COVID-19 to the common cold. Wearing a mask is a good way to show you are being considerate of the people around you. Please respect the choices of others in our community who may wish to continue to wear a mask.
