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.

Travel advisory - travel to China is suspended

Thursday, January 30, 2020

This message was originally sent to the University of Waterloo community by Sandra Banks, vice-president, University Relations.

On January 29, the Government of Canada raised the risk level for travel to China to “avoid non-essential travel.” In light of this change, we are suspending all travel to China on University business until further notice.

We will remain in touch with travellers in China to offer our assistance, as required, on a case-by-case basis. Students and other travellers currently in China are not required to leave the country.

If you are on a co-op term in China and you have any concerns you can contact your co-op student advisor or work term support who are standing by to offer guidance. Other travellers in China must contact safetyabroad@uwaterloo.ca to agree next steps.

If you have future plans to travel to China, please contact Waterloo International for guidance on making changes.

We strongly encourage you to register all planned international travel with the Safety Abroad Team at safetyabroad@uwaterloo.ca to access travel safety information, emergency assistance and access to various services provided by Anvil Group.

Public health advice

Public health authorities have stated the risk to Canadians of contracting the coronavirus is low. People who have recently travelled to China or on a flight with many passengers who originated in China are encouraged to tell their healthcare provider about their travel if they become ill after returning to Canada.

If you feel unwell, please contact your family doctor or attend Health Services or call on 519-888-4096 to book an appointment.

Coronavirus updates

You can get the most current information from the University’s new coronavirus website, which contains public health information and other useful links.

Previous updates are available on the Campus Wellness website. We have posted updates on:

The University’s official Twitter account and the Daily Bulletin will also share updated messaging.

If you have questions or concerns about coronavirus and Waterloo, please email coronavirus@uwaterloo.ca and our teams will help to find the right campus contact.