COVID Screener FAQ

With cold and flu season upon us, it is likely that you will come down with an illness that shares symptoms 

 

1.    Q- I have symptoms listed in the Daily COVID-19 Screening questions that are related to a known chronic condition (i.e. allergies) I have. Should I check them off?

A - Assessing symptoms of COVID-19 should focus on evaluating what is new, worsening, or different from your baseline health status or usual state. Symptoms associated with known chronic health conditions, or related to other known causes/conditions, should not be considered unless new, different or worsening.

2.    Q - I received a red QR code following my Daily COVID-19 Screening questions on Lakehead’s Mobile Safety app. May I still go to class?

A - No. If you receive a red QR code after answering your daily COVID-19 screening questions, you are not permitted to access any Lakehead University premises. Follow the directions provided through the Mobile Safety app and contact your instructor to explore options if you must self-isolate for a period of time.

3.    Q - If I have COVID-19 symptoms, can I just get a rapid test?

A - No. Rapid testing is not appropriate for symptomatic individuals. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, complete the provincial self-assessment and follow the directions provided.

4.    Q - I have a negative COVID-19 test but still have symptoms. Can I return to class?

A - It’s important to follow the advice of Public Health when you are unsure about whether it’s safe to leave your home. Contact the Thunder Bay District Health Unit at (807) 625-5900; or the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit at (705) 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.

5.    Q - I’m sick and unable to attend my exam. What should I do?

A - Lakehead University is temporarily suspending the need for a student who is ill to provide a Certificate of Illness or Incapacitation completed by a medical professional as per University Regulation IV (Examinations – Missed Examinations Due to Illness or Other Extenuating Circumstances).  If you are ill and need to defer an exam, please follow the steps outlined here.

6.    Q - I’m an instructor and I’ve had a student contact me about not passing the Daily COVID-19 Screening questions on the Lakehead Mobile Safety app.  How do I address situations where students are not able to attend campus?

A - As an instructor, it’s important to support students who cannot access campus as a result of feeling sick and/or may be at risk of potentially spreading COVID-19. Please accommodate their learning requirements as much as possible while they adhere to the instructions they will receive through the app and from Public Health in order to help keep yourself, your students, and the campus community safe. 

Click here for more COVID-19 FAQs specific to Lakehead University employees.

7. Q: Is there anything I can do to avoid getting sick?

A- You can take actions to prevent illness this cold and flu season: 

  • Practice frequent hand hygiene
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Get your flu shot
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Eat well-balanced meals 
  • Stay physically active and spend time outdoors
  • Find ways to de-stress and relax
Group of students seated, wearing masks and using devices