The Middlesex-London Health Unit has declared a COVID-19 outbreak in a residence at Western University. At this time, eight individuals within the same residence have tested positive for the virus. These individuals have been contacted by the Health Unit and are currently self-isolating with the support of Western’s administration. The Health Unit is also following up with all close contacts of the cases to ensure that they are tested and quarantined.

“Declaring an outbreak is an important step in order to limit further spread of the virus within the student community,” says Dr. Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “This outbreak highlights the need to limit close contact to only those within your dorm room, maintain two metres physical distance from all others, wear a mask in all indoor public spaces and stay in your room or suite if you feel unwell.”

The Health Unit is working with Western University to support these individuals as well as any other students who may need to seek testing or quarantine as a result of contact with these cases. In addition to getting tested at one of London’s COVID-19 Assessment Centres, Western University also offers testing on campus at the Western Student Recreation Centre for students, faculty and staff. For current hours and additional information, visit the Western COVID-19 Testing Centre.

The Health Unit recommends the following to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 infections:

• Limit interactions to only those who are part of your household, room or suite. If you live alone, consider having close contact with only one other household.
• Avoid non-essential travel to COVID-19 hot spots.
• Maintain two metres physical distance from anyone who is not part of your household, room or suite.
• Wear a mask whenever outside of the home or your room; including visits to the store and interactions with colleagues at work or in breakrooms.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 15-20 seconds or use a waterless hand sanitizer with at least 70 percent alcohol content.
• Cover coughs and/or sneezes with your sleeve or cough into your elbow.
• Clean high-touch areas, such as doorknobs in public spaces, frequently.
• Download the COVID Alert mobile app to be notified if you may have been exposed to COVID-19, and to let others know if you test positive for the virus.
• Visit https://covidtestinglm.ca for how to get tested at a London Assessment Centre.

For more information about COVID-19, please visit the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s website at www.healthunit.com/novel-coronavirus.

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Milne, Communications Supervisor, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-617-0564 (cell)

Spokesperson:
Dr. Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit