In Brief: TakeAway Testing, event planning guidance
TakeAway tests can be picked up and dropped off at 10 campus locations.
University launches TakeAway Testing
Employees, designated campus colleagues and students now have a new COVID-19 testing option. The Cats TakeAway Testing program, which was launched last week, allows users to pick up tests at designated campus locations without an appointment.
The saline gargle PCR test involves swishing and gargling a saline solution, then spitting it into a tube. The tests can be picked up and dropped off at 10 locations, including the Health Sciences Library, the Administration building, the Global Center, McClelland Hall, the Student Recreation Center and the Student Union Memorial Center. (See full list.)
The tests are being offered in addition to the University's existing in-person testing options. Those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can go to the Campus Health TakeAway Testing location to pick up a test kit and drop off their sample. While the University does not require testing, President Robert C. Robbins has encouraged all members of the campus community to get tested weekly, regardless of vaccination status.
Robbins discussed the Cats TakeAway Testing program during the Sept. 13 virtual briefing.
Read more in this UAnnounce memo.
University event planning guidance available online
The University of Arizona Event Exceptions Committee has asked members of the campus community to review the University's general event planning and mask guidance.
"With the start of the fall semester, we are looking forward to the variety of events and gatherings that bring our campus to life," the committee wrote in a message to members of the University's Event Resource Group. "Throughout your planning process, we strongly encourage you to review the University's general event planning guidance, which offers important considerations for planning on-campus activities and events and details the University's COVID-19 prevention principles."
Event planning resources, including best practices, can be found on the Events & Gatherings webpage.
"We encourage you to work with your building manager when planning your event and clearly communicate masking expectations with your attendees accordingly," the committee advised.
Event planners were encouraged to use the University's On-Campus Event/Activity Planning Checklist to maximize event safety.
Questions related to University gatherings can be sent to eventexceptions@arizona.edu.