Weekly Testing Update – February 4th, 2021

Dear FSU Community,

The University completed two days of testing this week on Monday, February 1st and Wednesday, February 3rd. I'd like to thank everyone for accommodating the late changes in testing dates and times due to the snow storm. A total of 695 tests were administered, resulting in zero positives. All of our latest data is now viewable on our COVID19 Dashboard.

While this is obviously very good data, we still have an unacceptable number of students who are not getting tested, particularly among our commuter population. If this continues, you will be barred from entering your on-campus classes. We are advising faculty members to ask students to show proof of their most recent tests when entering in-person classes. Attached is a flyer describing how you can easily pull up proof of your most recent testing date (without revealing any additional information, including results). If this process reveals that you have not been participating in regular testing, faculty members may ask you to leave the class.

As I'm sure you are aware, this weekend is Super Bowl Sunday. Please avoid any gatherings of large groups of people during the event, and if you want to have a party – please do it virtually. [You should schedule your appointment using through Medicat. If you are unable to make either of the two weekly testing dates due to your schedule, you should contact the Health Center (508-626-4900) so we can find an alternative way to accommodate you.] The CDC has issued guidance on safer ways to enjoy the Super Bowl this year.

Barring any additional winter weather cancellations, we will be back to our regular testing schedule next week of Mondays from Noon to 4 p.m. and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You should schedule your testing appointment using Medicat. Contact the Health Center (508-626-4900) if the testing dates/times don't work with your schedule so we can find an alternative way to accommodate you.

You may be reading that the incidence of COVID-19 infection is decreasing in MA and in the US.  However, because of the new, more contagious variants that have been identified, it's important that we maintain a high level of testing to stay aware of what's happening with the virus and isolate anyone who tests positive to keep the variants from spreading.

As always, keep wearing your masks, practicing good hygiene and social distancing, and avoiding large gatherings. Monitor your health daily, and if you are showing any symptoms, no matter how mild, you should contact the Health Center.

Stay safe,

Javier