Update 1: Essential university information

Posted: March 5, 2:00 p.m.

COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) is raising concerns and questions for members of the University of Alberta community at home, and those with international travel plans. We want to ensure you have the latest essential university information related to COVID-19, and know where you can access appropriate support should you need it.

There are currently no confirmed or presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Alberta. Alberta Health Services and the Public Health Agency of Canada advise that the risk of contracting the virus in Alberta and Canada remains low. In response to the international spread of COVID-19, Global Affairs Canada has advised against all travel to Iran, all non-essential travel to China, Northern Italy and the cities of Daegu and Cheongdo in South Korea — and listed precautions for other affected areas.

At the U of A, our Public Health Response Team is actively monitoring directives from public health authorities, as well as preparing for potential implications of the evolving COVID-19 situation. The health and safety of University of Alberta community members — whether at home or abroad — is our top priority. 

We are keeping the community informed through this website. Alongside public health and travel authorities, please consult this U of A site regularly for prevention advice, travel restrictions, preparedness resources and other university impacts. It will be updated as new information and resources become available.

As a community, it is important that we be prepared and take action if needed. Each of us has a role to play. At this time, please take particular note of the following key U of A preventative measures based on the direction from public health authorities:

• Avoid all university travel to Iran.
• All non-essential university travel to China, Northern Italy and South Korea (Daegu and Cheongdo) is suspended.
• Employees and students travelling internationally are strongly encouraged to follow the latest Global Affairs Canada travel advisories, and review their insurance coverage accordingly. 
• All employees travelling on university business should register with the university’s UGo system.
• All students travelling on university business *must* register with the university’s UGo system.
• If you feel unwell, please stay home and call Health Link (8-1-1) as necessary for advice.
• Wash and/or sanitize your hands often and well.

See the following sites for more information:

• Alberta Health Services
• Global Affairs Canada COVID-19 Travel Advisories
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• World Health Organization

Updated Mar 5, 2:00 PM