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Second update regarding novel coronavirus

Ryerson continues to monitor the situation and will provide information to the community should additional precautions become necessary
February 03, 2020
Person washing their hands

Ryerson community members are advised to take usual precautions to reduce exposure to and transmission of illnesses.

Note: Ryerson University is aware that there are fake social media posts alleging that Ryerson students have been admitted to hospital with the coronavirus. There are currently no cases of coronavirus at Ryerson University. Please check our website for up-to-date information on security incidents at Ryerson.

On January 30, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) a public health emergency of international concern. Canada’s public health officials (in collaboration with provincial and national health agencies) continue to advise that the risk of contracting the novel coronavirus in the Greater Toronto Area remains low

The university will continue to monitor the situation and follow the advice of public health agencies. We will provide information to the Ryerson community should additional precautions become necessary.

A number of questions have come up from students, faculty and staff about university procedures: The university is continuing under normal operating procedures.

If you are sick, we encourage you to stay home

As always, if you are sick, you should avoid close contact with others and stay home. If you have travelled to Wuhan, China and develop symptoms of 2019 novel coronavirus infection, avoid contact with others and follow-up with your health care professional. You can also contact Telehealth Ontario (external link) 

For students:

If you are a student with questions about assignments, exams or make-up classes, please contact your faculty/instructors. Regular procedures for your department/school apply. 

For faculty and staff:

For information about sick leave procedures, please visit Employee Resources on the HR website, choose your employee group, Leaves, Sick Leave benefits. 

If you are planning to travel internationally 

The Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory (external link)  to avoid all non-essential travel to China. 

The safety of Ryerson community members is of utmost importance. Ryerson is suspending all further university-sanctioned or sponsored student or employee travel to China until further notice. While the university cannot prohibit anyone from travelling to China for non-university related matters, we strongly urge you to review travel advisories and consider postponing any planned travel. 

If you are a faculty member who intends to travel for research-related purposes, which Ryerson does not encourage at this time, we ask that you register with International SOS (ISOS) Services. Registering with ISOS will allow Ryerson to maintain communication and support you while you are away with up to date notices on precautionary measures and safety regulations.

In addition, a number of other countries have imposed travel restrictions. Be sure to check a country’s restrictions before proceeding with travel plans. 

If you have further questions or concerns please contact Ryerson International (RI) at rihelp@torontomu.ca or 416-979-5000 ext. 543556 or review the FAQ on the RI website.

Prevention measures to reduce your exposure to and transmission of illnesses

Ryerson Facilities Management and Development custodians are increasing the frequency of cleaning high touch surfaces like handrails and doorknobs.

As a reminder, the most effective way to prevent your exposure to and transmission of illnesses (including influenza and the common cold) is to take preventative measures, including:

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 15 seconds (especially before handling food, after touching your face or shaking someone’s hand).
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Avoid sharing personal items with others who may be sick.
  • Cover your mouth with a tissue when sneezing and coughing. Throw the tissue away and then wash your hands immediately.
  • If you do not have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve or elbow.
  • As viruses can live on hard surfaces for up to eight hours, clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Practice good health habits to help your body fight off viruses. Ensure you are getting enough rest, drinking plenty of fluids, eating nutritious foods and staying active.

More information

For additional information and the latest news about the novel coronavirus and its impact in the Greater Toronto Area, please visit:

Questions?

For any questions regarding your health, please contact your healthcare practitioner or Toronto Public Health (external link) 

For updates from Ryerson visit the Facilities Management and Development website.

Related:

Update regarding novel coronavirus

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