a graphic image of the COVID-19 virus up close.

Updates regarding COVID-19

The Faculty of Medicine is committed to sharing information with our community on emerging issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Update: September 12, 2023

Reminder of COVID safety protocols

With the new semester now underway, we have already learned of several instances of people testing positive for COVID-19.  We’d therefore like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of our COVID safety protocols.  Please share and discuss with your staff and colleagues.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive on a PCR or rapid antigen test, you should self-isolate and follow these instructions:

• Isolate until symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours if gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea) and you do not have a fever.

• If you have a positive test result and no symptoms, you do not need to self-isolate unless symptoms develop, but you should follow the precautions below. If you develop symptoms, self-isolate immediately.

• For a total of 10 days after the start of symptoms (or date of positive test result, whichever is earlier), you should:

- Wear a mask as much as possible in public settings. 

- You can participate in activities where a mask is worn but you should avoid non-essential activities where removing the mask would be necessary (e.g., dining out)

• Not visit anyone who is immunocompromised or at higher risk of illness (e.g., seniors)

• Avoid non-essential visits to any highest risk settings. (e.g., acute care settings, continuing care facilities).  Where visits cannot be avoided, you should wear a medical mask, maintain physical distancing, and notify the highest risk setting of your recent illness/positive test. The person you are visiting should also wear a mask if they are able to.

If you are a close contact and do not live in a high risk setting, you should follow these instructions:

• You are not required to self-isolate if you do not have symptoms. 

• For a total of 10 days after the last contact with the person who has symptoms or tested positive for COVID-19, you should:

- Self-monitor for symptoms and self-isolate immediately if you develop any symptom of COVID-19. 

- Continue to wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings.

• If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, you should assume that you are positive for COVID-19 and follow these self-isolation instructions detailed above.

For further information, please visit the Ottawa Public Health website.  Should you wish to discuss any of the above, please email Medsafety.

Other resources

Past updates

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