Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338

SARS Update

June 12, 2003

SARS Update: June 12

The University of Guelph’s SARS advisory committee continues to monitor information and travel advisories related to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The committee met this week to plan for the fall semester. As a result of these discussions, the following changes to the University’s policies are being made, effective immediately.

Based on current information and practices across Ontario, the University is removing its 10-day isolation requirement for people who have travelled to areas affected by SARS.
People who have travelled to such areas should monitor their health for symptoms for 10 days. Anyone who develops a fever AND one or more of the following respiratory symptoms – cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing – should call the Guelph General Hospital for information on steps to take for screening. Anyone who develops symptoms must stay away from others until medical advice is received. This is very important for controlling the spread of SARS. For a list of affected regions and travel advisories, please visit the Health Canada Web site.

In addition, as per public health policy, individuals who have had close personal contact with a SARS case or been advised by public health authorities that self-isolation is necessary must not attend classes, work or University events until they complete the 10-day quarantine period.

The University is no longer asking that people coming from areas affected by SARS delay their arrival in Guelph, but they must follow the health-monitoring procedures outlined above. The University does continue to recommend that faculty, staff and students defer travel to areas for which there are travel advisories until further notice.

Further details of the SARS advisories are available on the Health Canada or Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care Web sites or by calling the SARS hotline, 1-888-668-4636, or Telehealth Ontario, 1-800-454-8302.

Students who have questions about other issues related to SARS should contact Student Health Services at Ext. 54333. Faculty and staff should contact Occupational Health Services at Ext. 52133. Conference delegates who have questions while in Guelph should contact the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health Unit at 821-2370.

Student Health Services, like other medical clinics and hospitals in the region, continues to take precautionary screening measures.