At a press conference earlier today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry confirmed that a case of COVID-19 is connected to University Canada West but said there is no risk to University Canada West students, faculty or staff.

“There was no risk,” said Dr. Henry. “They took the opportunity to be extra cautious and I understand they’re doing some cleaning over the weekend just to allay everybody’s fears.”

You can read the story and watch the press conference here.

The university also confirmed the second presumptive case of a UCW student related to the first student. Both students have been in isolation and present no risk to University Canada West students, faculty or staff.

UCW will remain closed for the remainder of today as well as Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 as we disinfect. Classes will resume on Monday, March 9 as we are fully confident in the assessment of the Provincial Health Officer and that there is no risk based on these cases. All classes will be conducted online for the remainder of the week.

UCW students, staff and faculty still need to remain vigilant to minimize the risk of infection.

You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions:

1. Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (preferred).

2. Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

3. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth; always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face.

4. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

5. Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call your healthcare provider in advance.

UCW will continue to monitor the situation and we will take all necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of our students.