Yesterday, the Government of Canada issued an advisory against non-essential travel to Mainland China. As a result, McGill academic staff members are strongly advised to avoid travelling to China and, if already there, to leave the country as soon as possible.
If you are in China presently:
As the situation is constantly changing, please consult the Government of Canada鈥檚 and for the most up-to-date information Should you choose to remain in China, you will incur what the Government of Canada to be an 鈥渋ncreased risk鈥� of becoming ill, and of 鈥渟preading disease to other groups including the Canadian public.鈥� For your own safety and that of others, I strongly urge you to leave the country as soon as possible. Several countries have reported plans to help their citizens leave China; please contact your local consular authorities if you need help with travel arrangements.
If you have plans to travel to China in the coming weeks:
I strongly urge you to make alternative arrangements. Similarly, should you choose to continue with your travel plans, you will be placing yourself and others at significant risk.
Additional resources for travellers:
- If you need to contact McGill in an emergency while abroad, call McGill Security Services at +1-514-398-3000. They can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- McGill has also launched a mini-site providing information on the coronavirus outbreak to our community.
- As well, Global Affairs Canada has a 24/7 hotline where Canadians can request ). They can be reached at sos [at] international.gc.ca or +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available).
- Information on Canada鈥檚 Embassy and Consulates General in China can be found .
I understand that this situation may be difficult, stressful or even frightening. Your work is important, but my primary concern must be for your safety, and for the safety of our McGill community. I urge you to take all appropriate measures to stay safe.
Sincerely,
Christopher P. Manfredi
Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic)