Region of Waterloo identifies cluster of off-campus COVID cases connected to gatherings

March 18, 2021

Dear undergraduate and graduate students,

Yesterday I was informed that Waterloo Public Health has identified a large cluster of COVID cases resulting from social gatherings held in private residences off-campus between March 4 and March 7.

At this time, the cluster includes 23 confirmed cases, one probable case, and an additional 19 individuals who are high-risk contacts. Public Health has confirmed that a number of these cases are Laurier students.You can read more about the cluster in the Region's notice.

It is disappointing to learn that some students have been putting themselves, their friends and families at risk by attending off-campus gatherings. This cluster is a powerful reminder that gatherings like this are not only a health risk for those attending, they play a role in the continued spread of the virus to others, leading to more tragic illness and death in our community.

This is unacceptable behavior that puts the health of friends, roommates, family, and the broader community at risk. Where we have found that students have violated provincial laws and put the health and safety of others at risk, there will be consequences under Laurier’s Non-Academic Student Code of Conduct.

Wilfrid Laurier University’s top priority is to keep people safe and prevent the spread of Covid-19. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Laurier has provided clear direction to students on how to stay safe and protect others based on guidance from public health officials, including avoiding high-risk activities such as house parties.

With Ontario headed into a third wave of cases and more dangerous variants of the virus circulating in the community, it’s critical we continue to follow public health guidelines, which include:

  • Avoiding all social gatherings with anyone not in your immediate household
  • Limiting non-essential trips outside your home (e.g. work, school, getting food)
  • Practicing physical distancing
  • Wearing a face covering
  • Washing your hands often
  • Avoiding enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded places
  • Staying home when you are sick and seek testing

Sincerely,

Ivan Joseph, VP: Student Affairs