President David Barnard said,“We understand that our faculty, staff, students and surrounding community have some concerns. At the same time, we have an obligation to continue to provide education opportunities to all our students. With that in mind, we are adjusting our program this month, to meet our obligations, as well as to ensure minimal risk to our community.”
Fifty-one students from Hunan, China are expected to arrive for classes next week. The University will conduct the first 10 days of their program of studies in Vancouver, throughout the standard incubation period of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
There is no public health advisory that requires this action from the University. Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region officials say they see no discernible risk in receiving Hunan-based students in Regina, although they agree that the University’s decision is an understandable one. Deputy Medical Officer Maurice Hennink said, “It’s understandable because of the public sensitivity around the issue of SARS. At the same time, we believe that of those infected, 97 per cent recover quite nicely. This is a better rate of recovery than we see with the usual strains of influenza.”
Health officials emphasize that the disease is not easily contracted. In addition to the symptoms of a high fever, and a cough or difficulty breathing, a person must come into close contact with the infection. Concerned persons are advised see www.sars.gov.ca for up-to-date information.
The University will continue to monitor the SARS situation, in consultation with the local health authorities.
For interviews, please contact Barbara Pollock, University Relations Director at 585-5163 or on her cell at 536-8119.