A message about student exit testing

November 5, 2020 |

Dear Carolina Students,

As this semester winds to a close, we ask those of you who are preparing to leave residence halls, apartments, and homes in town to please make an exit plan. This plan should include steps to reduce your risk of being exposed to COVID-19 during the 14 days before you travel, to monitor for symptoms, and to get tested before you leave — all of which are critical pieces to help prevent illness among your family and friends.

To make testing more convenient for you, Campus Health will extend its hours at the Carolina Union for free asymptomatic testing during the week of Nov. 16, with test results expected in approximately two days. Make a plan that allows you to receive the results before traveling.

Here’s what you need to know about asymptomatic testing the week of Nov. 16:

  • Who: On and off-campus students who are asymptomatic and are not considered a close contact to a positive individual. NOTE: Symptomatic individuals and close contacts should contact Campus Health separately to get tested.
  • When: Nov. 16-20 – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (See the Campus Health website for times before and after the week of Nov. 16-20.)
  • Where: Carolina Union Gallery area, outside of the Great Hall
  • How: Saliva-based test; no nasal swabs. You will find more information and detailed instructions about testing at the Campus Health website.
  • Parking: 10 spaces reserved in the Undergraduate Lot (N8)

People traveling at the end of the semester are encouraged to check arrival requirements for your destination. Some places may require you to quarantine when you arrive.

While a COVID-19 test is important, it is only one component of a comprehensive strategy to prevent viral spread. A negative test result represents your status at that moment in time, so it’s crucial to continue following CDC recommendations, which include limiting the total number of individuals you interact with, limiting the overall time spent in contact with others, and practicing the 3Ws: washing your hands frequently, wearing a face mask, and waiting six feet apart from other people.

The Campus Health Testing Center will still be available for scheduled appointments for students who are symptomatic, close contacts of individuals who have tested positive, or those who believe they have been exposed. That testing takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

In addition, we also encourage you to get a flu vaccination if you haven’t done so yet. Together, if we take these simple steps, we can keep each other and our families healthy and well for the holiday season. We wish you safe travels and a restful and restorative break.

Sincerely,

Amy Johnson
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Ken Pittman
Executive Director for Campus Health Services

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