As the Fall semester rolls around, it is important that we take into account the very different reality that we are living in, and ensure that we are taking proper precautions. The overall health and wellness of our members deserves our utmost care and attention. Alpha Phi continues to monitor the global health situation and is actively discussing contingency plans for chapter operations. Our main priority is the health and well-being of our community.
The status of the COVID-19 epidemic varies across Canada, affecting diverse groups based on gender, ethnicity/culture, and other socioeconomic and demographic factors. Nationally, we are seeing the impact of public health measures on the flattening of the epidemic curve and slowdown in the growth of new cases of COVID-19. The nature and phase of the COVID-19 epidemic is different across and within provinces and territories.
As some public health measures are lifted, some degree of COVID-19 transmission will be unavoidable; therefore, implementing a strategic approach that maintains protective measures for those most likely to experience serious illness due to COVID-19 is paramount. All health units in eastern Ontario, including Ottawa, will advance to Stage 3 of Ontario’s reopening plan on July 17th. As part of the Stage 3 reopening, Ontario will be increasing gathering limits for those regions entering the next stage to increase indoor gathering limits to a maximum of 50 people, and outdoor gathering limits to a maximum of 100 people, while continuing to be subject to physical distancing requirements. While we expect to operate virtually, in large part, for the Fall semester, the evolving stages of re-opening could allow for the potential of socially-distanced gatherings and events.
Alpha Phi will continue to monitor the guidelines and restrictions as set out by federal, provincial, and muniplical guidelines, as well as the University of Ottawa. Our top priority is to do our part to mitigate the risk of increased transmission, and ensure that we keep our chapter and our community safe. We will continue to conduct risk assessments examining likelihood of transmission and the consequences of that transmission prior to making any decisions regarding any potential in-person gatherings or events.
AOE