Case tracking: cluster of concern leads to one new case, outbreak at Claudette Millar Hall

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, Region of Waterloo public health informed us one person on our campus has tested positive for COVID-19.

This case is a close contact of an individual who tested positive on March 14. Both individuals are in self isolation. As a result, Region of Waterloo public health has declared an outbreak in Claudette Millar Hall.

Large cluster of local cases 

Public health officials believe these two cases may be related to a large cluster of confirmed cases related to multiple social gatherings held indoors between March 4 and 7 at three private residences. One of the initial cases in the cluster has screened positive for a variant of concern.

Public health officials are investigating and are informing all high-risk contacts. If you do not hear from public health officials, you should continue to self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and seek testing if needed.  

Students in residences can get support 

Residents who are experiencing symptoms, are concerned about exposure, have been identified as a high-risk contact, or have received advice to self-isolate can email reslifeteam@uwaterloo.ca for support. 

University of Waterloo has robust protocols to manage COVID-19 cases on campus and in residence. Our Campus Housing team developed the procedures in consultation with public health and the Safety Office to protect the safety of our community. We maintain cleaning and disinfection that exceeds public health requirements. 

Avoid gatherings and stay safe 

We are reminding our community that every student and employee has an important part to play in limiting the risk of COVID-19. It is up to everyone to follow public health guidance and to respect each other as we share the space on our campus.  

Public health advise everyone in Waterloo region to: 

• Avoid all social gatherings with anyone not in your immediate household 

• Limit non-essential trips outside your home (e.g. work, school, getting food) 

• Practice physical distancing  

• Wear a face covering 

• Wash your hands often  

• Avoid enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded places 

• Stay home when you are sick and seek testing 

COVID-19 testing is available for University students, employees, postdocs and family members living in the same household. To book a test, please use the online registration form.

We take the privacy of individuals extremely seriously. In reporting on positive cases, the University will protect the private health information of individuals. You should  check our disclosure protocol  for what to do if someone reveals to you that they have tested positive for COVID-19.