Prevention and response to COVID-19

Queen’s increases communication to assist campus in coronavirus preparedness.

Following the appointment of David Walker as lead of the university’s response to coronavirus COVID-19, Queen’s is focusing its efforts on increasing communication and awareness of the virus and potential impact on the community. The university is sending out a message from the Principal to all students about the virus, current prevention strategies, and information on planning underway to address the possibility of a positive case at the university. Additional resources to promote safety and prevention have been created. Up-to-date information on the illness and the institution’s response has been posted to a central Coronavirus COVID-19 Information website, and an infographic to help promote a healthy and respectful campus community is being dispersed through social media.

“The best tool to help us prepare for the potential arrival of COVID-19 on our campus is the sharing of up-to-date information,” says Dr. Walker, Special Advisor to the Principal on Planning and Preparation for COVID-19. “As the global situation with the novel coronavirus continues to evolve, and as Canada logs new cases, Queen’s is readying its response. We hope all of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors familiarize themselves with how to best prevent infection and potential spread within our community.”

There are no identified cases of COVID-19 yet reported in Kingston and the risk on campus is low at this time. The university’s Coronavirus COVID-19 Information website also includes information about COVID-19 symptoms and response, prevention, links to public health authorities, travel advisories, and more. It will be updated daily as new developments and operational plans continue to take shape.

The newly created coronavirus COVID-19 infographic addresses common worries about the outbreak and suggests helpful tips to keep the Queen’s community safe. You can find it on Queen’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts. People are urged to share it widely. Poster and digital screen versions of the infographic will also be displayed around campus.

Queen’s community members should contact covidinfo@queensu.ca with questions and concerns.

Note: This article originally appeared in the Queen's Gazette.