Creating a healthy campus together
As we head into final projects, exams and more gatherings with family and friends ahead of the holiday season, there are many things we can do to get us through this respiratory illness season.
Top five things you should keep in mind
1. Vaccinations: The best defence against COVID-19 and influenza
The best protection we have against COVID-19 and influenza is the widely available, safe and highly effective vaccines. Getting vaccinated and boostered supports the CapU community in building a safe and healthy learning and working environment. Learn more at ImmunizeBC.
COVID-19 rapid testing kits are available for free at our campuses and learning locations in boxes containing five rapid antigen tests each. The Capilano Students’ Union is distributing COVID-19 rapid antigen testing kits for students studying in-person on the main campus to support academic continuity. If you need a box, visit the Capilano Students' Union member services desk in the Library Lounge, room LB195, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you’re living in CapU student housing, you can pick up a kit through the student housing office. If you’re studying at the kálax-ay Sunshine Coast campus or CapU Lonsdale, visit the main offices for those locations; at Ts̓zil, speak to your instructor.
Free rapid testing kits are also available at your local pharmacy.
2. Stay home if you feel sick
Starting November 17, 2022, people who have COVID-19 are no longer required to self-isolate. However, if you feel sick or experience any COVID-19 symptoms, it's still important for you to stay home and not attend University activities in person to reduce any potential spread of illness to others.
The University is following the guidance and direction of the Provincial Health Officer and its own Exposure Control Plan for Communicable Diseases to provide guidance specifically for our campus community.
3. Mask-wearing is optional at CapU
Mask-wearing will be optional for all students, employees and visitors present on our main campus, kálax-ay/Sunshine Coast campus, CapU Lonsdale, student housing and other CapU learning locations, including classrooms, common areas and office spaces where the public is being served.
While masks are not required nor mandated, we recognize that we all have our own risks and vulnerabilities and support everyone’s choice to wear a mask, if they feel more comfortable doing so.
4. Practice diligent hand hygiene
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
5. Cleaning and sanitization continue to be a priority
Cleaning and sanitization continue to be a priority in all common and high-trafficked areas and touch points. Hand-sanitization stations are provided at all entrances/exits to buildings and elevators. Cleaning supplies are provided so you can wipe down your space before you leave communal areas.
You are the key to managing the spread of communicable diseases
Protecting the health of our students, employees and campus community is a shared responsibility.
For the latest information, check Campus Ready section of our website. Any questions can be directed to safety@capilanou.ca.
Stay connected—Download the CapU Safe App on your mobile device
CapU Safe is the best way to stay up-to-date in the event of a safety or security issue, including an emergency or weather-related campus closure. Access to important safety resources all in one place and receive safety notifications the moment they are issued. Download the app via the iOS/Apple Store or Android/Google Play.
Submitted by: Communications