The University of Toledo is partnering with the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department to host a free, two-day COVID-19 testing event ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Testing will be available for UToledo students, faculty, staff and their family members from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 and Friday, Nov. 20. The testing was initially planned to be outside Rocket Hall in parking area 25 with drive-thru and walk-up testing options provided. It was moved inside due to forecasted high winds on Thursday.
No appointments or physician referrals are needed. Testing is free and health insurance is not required. Bring your Rocket ID with you. The Health Department also will provide testing for community members during a public portion of the testing event.
University officials are strongly encouraging students to participate, particularly if their plans include returning home or traveling to spend the holidays with friends and family.
“I’m proud of the continued diligence of our campus community to protect our campus from the spread of COVID-19,” Interim President Gregory Postel said. “With cases on the rise across much of the country, and here in Ohio, it’s important for all of us not to let our guard down as the semester comes to a close.”
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 40% of COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic. Testing can help prevent those individuals from unknowingly spreading the virus.
“We want to encourage members of our campus community to take advantage of this opportunity and do your part to keep yourself and your family safe during the holiday season,” Postel said.
Samples will be taken via a nasopharyngeal swab.
“With the significant increase of COVID-19 infections across Ohio, I strongly encourage students to take advantage of the opportunity to be tested, prior to the Thanksgiving holiday,” Lucas County Health Commissioner Dr. Eric Zgodzinski said. “However, it is imperative to stay physically distant from others, as much as possible, until you leave campus for break.”
Results are expected to be available within two to three days, allowing individuals time to receive their results before the end of on-campus classes Tuesday, Nov. 24.
The University has plans in place to provide temporary on-campus housing and food for residential students who test positive and are unable to return to their permanent residence to complete the recommended 10-day isolation period.
