Dear Students,
Many of you have reached out with questions about yesterday’s message regarding the new requirement for all residential students to bring with them a negative COVID-19 PCR test result to move-in. I write today to offer clarification and additional information.
Students and their families are particularly concerned about getting test results within the time frame that Loyola requested—within 72 hours of arrival. Student Health Services understands that there is variation in the amount of time that it takes for people to get results after being tested. We will absolutely work with you to make sure you can begin this semester at Loyola as planned. We simply ask that you do your best to get tested in a timely way that helps set us up for a successful Fall 2021. Calling your local testing facilities may allow you to get a better idea of the test turnaround time and therefore a good window of time for when the test should be administered.
Who needs to be tested:
All residents, including students living in Loyola-sponsored housing in The Social, must be tested. Family members or move-in helpers do not need to be tested but must wear a mask while on campus.
If your results come back earlier than 72 hours before your arrival:
Bring your test result with you to move-in. We will review your results and help you get processed for move-in as quickly as possible.
If you have been tested but do not have your results yet at move-in:
You will meet a representative from Student Health Services as you enter the move-in area at the Fitness & Aquatic Center. We will talk with you and plan for a rapid test on-site. If that test is negative, you will continue with the move-in process. Once you receive your PCR test results, you should forward them to covidtesting@loyola.edu. Please note: We are asking students not to rely on the rapid-testing option at move-in because it will delay your move-in as you await your results. Student Health Services will be staffed to test students who need this as an option, but we do not have the time and space to offer this to all students.
If your test result comes back positive:
If your result from your pre-arrival test is positive for COVID-19, please DO NOT come to campus. Notify Student Health Services at 410-617-5055. You will be directed to send a copy of your positive test to covidtesting@loyola.edu, and we will help you work with Student Life to reschedule your move-in day.
If you cannot find a place to be tested:
Please contact us directly at 410-617-5055. We will work with you to develop a plan and decrease your stress.
For students who are exempt from vaccination:
Students who have been granted a medical or religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination must have a negative PCR test result to move into Loyola housing. The rapid test we will have available on-site at move-in will not be a backup option for those students.
A Safe and Healthy Start
This pre-arrival requirement is not meant to add to the stress of our students and their families. The University’s decision to take this step was in the interest of ensuring a safe and healthy start. We also want to avoid having students in quarantine and isolation unless it is necessary, and this positions everyone well for the start of the academic year.
For more information about our COVID planning, please visit the COVID Operations plan site.
Thank you for doing your part to keep yourself and our community healthy.
Sincerely,
Julie Sanz, MSN, ANP-BC
Director
Student Health Services