The Windsor Essex County Health Unit has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at a student residence at the University of Windsor.
The outbreak stems from a party that was held on Halloween. There are five confirmed cases linked to the party and 13 other students self-isolating in separate units. The cases originated from a student who visited a community outside of Windsor-Essex and attended the party while experiencing minor symptoms.
“This is a strong reminder to our student community that we cannot become complacent with our protocols and guidelines during this pandemic. There is simply too much at stake and we need to be stringent now more than ever,” said University of Windsor President and Vice-Chancellor Rob Gordon. “We all need to be responsible and consider how our behaviour today may affect our friends, family, and members of the larger community tomorrow.”
The University of Windsor has thoroughly cleaned the residence and is providing services to all of the students who are isolating.
“The University of Windsor has quickly taken the appropriate measures in cooperation with the health unit – there is no ongoing risk to the students at this time,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.
The health unit has further clarified that four nursing students who tested positive for COVID-19 are not linked to the gathering at the student residence. It is unclear where these cases originated.
