The University’s COVID-19 safety strategies include multiple testing tools. Along with re-entry and sentinel testing, University Medical Center staff members are conducting for-cause testing across campus.
Free for-cause testing is conducted on-site for those in a shared location, such as a Greek house, residence hall floor, student group or classroom. It can be associated with an increase in positive test results, but it is also a valuable monitoring tool in preventing outbreaks.
Mandatory for-cause testing will be held in Tutwiler Hall Monday, Sept. 14, with testing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for sixth floor residents only. Other locations will be added in coming days and weeks.
For-cause testing is conducted when health officials determine the need based on an increase in reported positive tests or COVID-related symptoms in a common group, even if they don’t have a shared living or working space. For-cause testing is required, and those who refuse to participate will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct.
For-cause testing does not mean someone has been exposed. Those who are identified by the COVID Support team as having direct contact — being within six feet without proper face coverings for 15 minutes or more — will be contacted directly.
The University’s COVID Hotline at 205-348-CV19 (2819) has added staff to improve response times. Testing questions can also be submitted to the online form.