UNC starts testing all students for COVID-19, even those with no symptoms

The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill will offer free testing to all students living locally regardless of if they have COVID-19 symptoms.

Posted 9:44 a.m. Sep 9, 2020 — Updated 9:38 p.m. Sep 9, 2020

Jessica Patrick

, WRAL multiplatform producer

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill will offer free testing to all students living locally regardless of whether they have COVID-19 symptoms.

Testing is voluntary and begins Wednesday, according to a memo from Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Bob Blouin. The increased testing aims to more accurately align campus data with state and local health department recommendations.

UNC will offer immediate testing to students living on campus and, in the coming weeks, to those still in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area.

According to the memo, students should look for an email with more information about testing.

Employee COVID-19 testing clinics will be open every Wednesday at the R7 parking lot adjacent to Sheps Building located at 725 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. These clinics are drive-thru and will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

While testing is voluntary, the school said, "It is important that all students remaining in the area participate. We have a responsibility to each other and the local community to limit the spread of COVID-19 and detecting asymptomatic cases or symptomatic cases early is one of the best ways we can do that. We ask that you play your part in keeping those around you safe."

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