Updates for the U of A community, week ending December 17
17 December 2021
This update was posted more than one month ago. Directions, policies, and safety measures may have changed during this time. To find the latest information, please consult the COVID-19 site or try searching the U of A website.
Posted: December 17, 2021 at 4:30 p.m.
While there are still many unknowns about the new Omicron variant, we want you to know that the PHRT is monitoring all the latest information and data related to its impact. Based on the available information about the variant in Alberta and our safety successes this fall, our plans for January 2022 remain unchanged at this time. As always, your health and safety remains our top priority, so should we need to adjust any of our safety measures in the coming weeks, we will. For now though, we ask for your continued cooperation and commitment to follow all the best practices and health measures as we prepare to safely welcome 2022 as well as staying connected with our COVID-19 information over the holiday period should things change.
Staying well over the Winter Closure
While the Winter Closure is time for some well earned rest and relaxation, it’s not the time to ease up on following public health measures. We hope to see everyone safely returning to our campuses in January, so be sure to continue staying home when feeling unwell, keep up your good hand hygiene and wear a mask.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and the holiday season can be difficult for some. These off-campus and telephone community resources are available 24/7 for immediate support »
Winter Term 2022 | Coming to Campus eLearning
The 2022 Winter Term | Coming to Campus eLearning is now available. It is a quick voluntary update for faculty, staff and students returning in January.
Work from home orders & transitions to on-campus work
Alberta remains under the provincial work from home order. Once the order is lifted, employees will resume the phased transition to on-campus work. All employees will receive a minimum of 30 days notice of any planned return to on-campus work. If you have any questions, check with your supervisor.
Global travel advisory and U of A Travel Directive
The Government of Canada announced on December 15 that Canadians are to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada due to the risk of the Omicron variant that causes COVID-19. In response to this advisory, an updated Travel Directive is now in effect. The aim of the directive is to protect the health, safety and wellness of our university and greater Alberta communities while helping ensure continuity of university operations. Learn more about changes to international travel for students, faculty and employees »
Rapid tests available at local pharmacies
Alberta is providing free COVID-19 rapid antigen testing kits for at-home use. Starting December 17, rapid test kits can be picked up by all Albertans at select locations on a first-come first-served basis, while supplies last. Additional locations will be added as more kits are available. Learn more and find a pharmacy near you »
Please continue to check your U of A inbox and uab.ca/covid19 for updates. The next regular COVID-19 update is scheduled for January 14.
General inquiries: U of A Public Health Response Team, phrtinfo@ualberta.ca