The leaders of the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) and Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) are urging fellow students to do their part in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

“COVID-19 remains a very real and present threat in our local communities,” said Christopher Yendt, President of the GSA, adding that projections show things will continue to change, and at a rapid pace, this fall and winter.

“I’m asking for your vigilance on behalf of the Graduate Students’ Association and our institution in making sure that we continue to follow those guidelines and we do what is necessary to make sure that our communities stay safe, as well as those around us.”

The Province of Ontario remains in Stage 3 of its Reopening Plan, which means there are still restrictions in place around the number of people allowed to gather together. As of Sept. 19, private, unmonitored gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

BUSU President Asad Jalib echoed Yendt’s message and asked students to “stay safe and be smart.”

“As more and more students return to the Niagara region, we know how tempting it will be to want to begin ignoring these public health guidelines and recommendations,” said Jalib. “We urge you, the Brock University community, to continue to do your part in helping minimize the spread of COVID-19.”

“We all want things to be back to normal, or as normal as they can be, as soon as possible. This can only happen if we continue to be diligent and do our part.”

Some key Niagara Region Public Health guidelines to remember:

• Limit the number of guests at gatherings
• Maintain a safe physical distance of two metres
• Wash and sanitize your hands often
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Wear a mask and wear it properly
• Stay home if you’re sick
• Self-quarantine for 14 days when returning from travel outside Canada

Brock President Gervan Fearon also reminded students of the importance of wearing a mask.