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.

Coronavirus update: case confirmed in Waterloo Region

Thursday, March 5, 2020

This message was originally sent to students by Sandra Banks, vice-president, University Relations.

What’s changed

  • Public Health has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Waterloo region, a female in her 50’s in Kitchener 
  • If you were on Air Canada flights 827 from Milan to Lisbon or 259 from Lisbon to Toronto, you should contact Health Services 
  • The risk to Waterloo is still low 

I’d like to make you aware of recent updates on the COVID-19 situation in Waterloo Region.

Public Health has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. Grand River Hospital and Region of Waterloo Public Health are taking all necessary precautions to avoid the spread of the virus.

Passengers aboard the same flights as the infected woman are being asked to self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days. The woman traveled on a flight from Milan to Lisbon (Flight 827: Air Portugal) and then Lisbon to Toronto (Flight 259: Air Portugal) on March 3, 2020.

If you were aboard the flights or recently returned from travel and feel unwell, please contact Health Services at 519-888-4096.

The risk to our region and Canada still remains low.

To avoid a range of illnesses, please continue to take these steps: 

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 
  • Stay home when you are sick. 
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. 
  • Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces, like your laptop or mobile phone.

We are monitoring and responding to the current situation. We are following plans and protocols already in place to prevent the spread of infectious disease on our campus. We will continue to provide updates to campus around the latest developments.