University message on the Coronavirus

JANUARY 30, 2020 – On Wednesday, January 29, 2020, officials from Acadia University, along with all of Nova Scotia’s universities and community colleges, participated in an information session hosted by Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Robert Strang, regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

During the call, Dr. Strang advised that the risk of contracting the Coronavirus remains low for people in Nova Scotia. Likewise, the Public Health Agency of Canada assesses the public health risk associated with 2019-nCoV as low for Canada.

The Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness has provided the information attached (PDF) to assist individual to make self assessments regarding the risk of infection.

The University takes its direction and shares information regarding health and travel advisories from federal, provincial, and local authorities. As such we will monitor the situation and provide additional information on the University’s homepage as updates are issued.

Today, the Government of Canada Travel Health Notice is recommending people avoid non-essential travel to China in general and to avoid all travel of any nature to Hubei Province. Acadia University is advising members of the campus community with travel plans to those regions to respect that advice and consult with supervisors and faculty advisors to discuss the next steps.

Preventative measures

Winter is a time of year when respiratory viruses that cause the common cold or other illnesses such as influenza (flu) are circulating in our communities. It is important to take routine preventative measures to stay healthy:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand rub when hands are not visibly soiled.
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue. If using a tissue, immediately place it in a waste disposal and wash hands.
  • If possible, stay home when ill with acute respiratory symptoms. If this is not possible, limit close contact with others, avoid placing your hands on high-touch surfaces such as handrails, counters, and doorknobs.

For additional information on the virus, symptoms, how to protect yourself, and current travel advice, please refer to the following sites:

If you have non-emergency health concerns or questions, call 811. Students may also contact the Student Health Centre at Acadia University.

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