For the latest news and information on the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO website.
Much work and effort has gone into making coronavirus testing available to the masses during the ongoing global pandemic. The University of California in San Diego has found a clever solution for their students and employees: vending machines around the campus.
As part of the university's Return to Learn program, free kits for self-administered COVID-19 tests are available via vending machines at 11 locations. The machines are very similar to regular snack machines, but contain individually wrapped nasal tests instead of potato chips or Hershey bars.
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Using the tests is a process. The tests contain barcodes that work with a UC San Diego app that allows users to access their test results. The university is asking students and staff to return the tests within 72 hours to place boxes next to the machines.
Students who live on campus or come to campus must test weekly. Results are usually available within two days of stopping the test.
UC San Diego's winter quarter began on Monday. Since last March, the university has logged over 100,000 COVID-19 tests for students and over 28,000 employee tests. Most courses are held remotely, although there are some face-to-face courses, including those held in outdoor classrooms.
"Throughout the fall, the campus' proactive strategies to detect and prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 proved to be effective - the campus positivity rates remained well below average," the university stated in its winter plan for 2021.
There is a disciplining process for students who fail to take the mandatory tests, which makes the vending machines all the more important. The machines could be an inspiration to other schools and organizations figuring out the best way to conduct testing during a raging pandemic.
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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions about a disease or health goals.
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