Only four students test positive in first wave of coronavirus testing at Duke

More than 3,100 students were tested, meaning fewer than 0.2% tested positive.

University leaders and students say they are very encouraged to see that number.

“This does give us some level of confidence going into this semester that this is not just a manageable situation, but one in which we believe we can fulfill our educational mission and create a positive experience for our students," said Michael Schoenfeld, the chief communications officer at Duke.

Coronavirus testing is now part of the college experience for students arriving to Duke's campus.

“I think we’re also really lucky that we’ve been given the opportunity for everyone to be tested," said freshmen athlete Darcy Bourne.

As students arrive at school, which will continue through the end of August, all are being tested.

“I’m not shocked at anything these days, but I think it’s fair to say that we were a bit surprised that it was that low, but again, you never gloat about any of these things because testing is a snapshot, and we still have a lot more to go," said Schoenfeld.

The university is testing at least 500 students a day.

“I think understanding that we’re all in this together and that everyone is going through the same thing" is important, said freshmen athlete Morgan Fletcher.

Those who tested positive will be isolated until cleared by a physician.

Testing for students living off campus will begin this week. That will be followed by the testing of graduate students.

University staff does have the option to get tested this week or next if they’d like.