The university will keep students, faculty, and staff on campus, but recommends that some gatherings be transitioned to a virtual format
T he University of Guelph has released an update on its handling of the pandemic in light of Ontario’s latest actions to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
As experts continue to collect concerning data on the newest variant of interest, Omicron, the provincial government is delaying lifting proof of vaccination indefinitely. Ontarians are also advised to limit the size of social gatherings and to work from home whenever possible.
On Dec. 14 the university announced that on-campus restaurants and gyms will continue to require proof of vaccination due to Ontario’s aforementioned delay.
As for fall 2021 exams, they will remain as scheduled according to the method of delivery indicated on WebAdvisor. Regarding the holiday break, the university will remain open until the end of the day on Dec. 23, and then reopen on Jan. 4. However, any planned social gatherings such as holiday parties and team lunches are urged to take an online format, and all current COVID-19 vaccination policies will remain in place.
Winter 2022 semester courses are still on track for in-person delivery and will begin on Jan. 10.
U of G continues to monitor the pandemic and “is working on a rapid testing framework for students, faculty and staff,” though additional details on the framework are forthcoming. In the meantime, residence wastewater continues to be tested for the SARS-CoV-2 virus so that university officials can identify risks on campus.
U of G staff can speak to their supervisor about work arrangements and accommodations, and any changes in the planned physical return to campus will be announced on the U of G COVID-19 website, the intranet, and through email updates.
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