UNG encourages COVID-19 testing before fall break
Article By: Staff
Students, faculty and staff who are not experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 are encouraged to take advantage of the free, voluntary Surveillance Testing Program at the University of North Georgia (UNG) prior to fall break.
The final day of classes for the fall 2020 semester is Nov. 24. Final exams after Thanksgiving will be online, but most campus resources will remain open and available.
"We are grateful for the preventive measures our students and employees are taking to keep the UNG community safe and healthy," Kate Maine, UNG Vice President for University Relations, said. "Having test results in hand prior to the fall break may give our students and employees who have travel plans peace of mind that they are keeping their families and friends safe as well."
Since late September, UNG has offered voluntary, free COVID-19 testing to any UNG student, faculty or staff who is not currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
"Surveillance testing is conducted to monitor the spread of COVID-19 within a community, particularly among asymptomatic individuals," Greg Williams, associate director of emergency preparedness, said. "This program is part of the university’s multi-faceted approach to monitor the spread of COVID-19 within the UNG community."
Test appointments are offered on a first-come, first-served basis with registration opening each Sunday, approximately eight to nine days prior to the testing date. UNG community members may register through the Nighthawks Together website.
Registration currently is open for the following slots:
- Nov. 10, 11 a.m. – noon, Dahlonega
- Nov. 10, 11 a.m. – noon, Cumming
- Nov. 16, 11 a.m. – noon, Dahlonega
- Nov. 16, Noon - 1 p.m., Oconee
- Nov. 17, 11 a.m. – noon, Gainesville
Registration opens Nov. 15 for the remaining slots:
- Nov. 30, 11 a.m. – noon, Gainesville
- Nov. 30, Noon - 1 p.m., Oconee
- Dec. 1, 11 a.m. – noon, Dahlonega
- Dec. 1, 11 a.m. – noon, Cumming
The entire process is contactless and takes approximately 15 minutes. This is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that uses the individual's saliva sample to analyze the presence of gene sequences. If these gene sequences are present, the test result will be positive. Individuals will receive results within three to five business days.
To prepare for the test, participants should be well-hydrated prior to the event and should not eat, drink, smoke, or chew anything for at least 30 minutes prior to the event. Participants should bring a smart phone with them to assist with the registration process.
UNG Student Health Services continues to offer other COVID-19 tests for students who are symptomatic. Students should call or email to make an appointment:
- Dahlonega - stuhealth@ung.edu, 706-864-1948
- Gainesville - stuhealthgvl@ung.edu, 678-696-2676
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