McMaster University is asking faculty members and instructors to consider adding online teaching methods due to growing concerns about the COVID-19 outbreak.

The university says classes and academic programs are continuing as usual but staff is being encouraged to look at options to expand the ways courses are provided to students.

By incorporating online elements, the university says it will facilitate access off campus, complement in-class teaching, and enhance the learning experience. It will also allow flexibility in the “face of unexpected events.”

Some alternatives to in-class teaching include livestreaming or pre-recorded lectures.

The university says it looks to Global Affairs Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada along with public health agencies in Ontario to guide its decisions in working to maintain the health and safety of the campus.

Earlier this week, an undergraduate student from the university underwent testing for COVID-19, also known as coronavirus.

The student, who lives outside of Hamilton, sought medical attention after showing flu-like symptoms following a trip to Italy during reading week in mid-February.

They were in self-isolation while awaiting test results for the virus, which ultimately came back negative.

The university implemented extra cleaning measures “in an abundance of caution” after learning the student had been on campus in the Burke Science Building last Tuesday.

Health officials say the risk of contracting coronavirus in Canada is still considered to be low.

The university has been providing regular updates regarding coronavius via their website.