UPDATE: The original version of this article featured information about a saliva test for COVID-19 that would take less than 15 minutes to complete. The team at Curative Inc. has since clarified that this test is an oral swab, taking around 20 seconds to complete.

MOON TOWNSHIP — Robert Morris University’s Office of Student Life has announced that it will be implementing randomized COVID-19 tests.

According to Student Life, campus community members will be tested in random cohorts. This will include individuals who are not showing symptoms of COVID-19.

It was also stated that anyone who is selected for testing is required to do so. Failure to comply with the testing is said to be a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and may result in unspecified disciplinary action or sanctions.

Tests will be san oral swab and will reportedly take around 20 seconds to complete. Those selected for testing will have to do so under the supervision of a trained personnel member.

Testing will take place Mondays through Fridays and is set to begin on Monday, October 26. Those selected are asked to arrive at the outdoor facility of the Jefferson Center 10 minutes before their testing time. The tests come as a result of a partnership between RMU, Curative Inc., the UPMC MyHealth@School Center and the Allegheny Health Department.

Students who are selected will be sent instructions which will allow them to register for their test online.

The university anticipates to test up to 100 students each week and results for the test are expected to be returned within a 24 to 48 hour period.
It is assured that testing information will be kept confidential and that anyone who tests positive will be alerted.

As of Oct. 21, there were no students in isolation on the RMU campus. According to the RMU COVID-19 Dashboard, individuals in isolation have tested positive for COVID-19.

To learn more about COVID-19 on campus, click here.