Asymptomatic Testing Programme
From 23 November, Queen’s will begin an asymptomatic testing programme on campus as part of a national scheme. Mass asymptomatic testing is considered an important element of the national strategy to tackle the pandemic and Queen’s is pleased to play its part and be one of the first places in the UK to offer asymptomatic testing at scale. The results of this project will inform potential future roll-out of asymptomatic testing in other parts of society.
Prior to Christmas, students are invited to participate in the scheme and book an asymptomatic test. We particularly encourage those students who have remained on campus throughout first semester and intend to return home for the first time for Christmas to take part to allow them to return home with confidence.
We plan to continue to offer asymptomatic testing for the Queen’s community in second semester and specific details will be provided in due course. This is another way in which the University is taking all possible steps to ensure the University remains a safe place to live, work and study.
The tests will be conducted using lateral flow devices that have recently been approved for use as a screening device for Covid-19. These tests can give rapid results, although participants are required to have two tests no less than three days apart.
It is important to emphasise that this scheme is for those who are not displaying symptoms. If any member of the Queen’s community develops symptoms at any time, it is essential that they self-isolate immediately and book a test here.
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How many people will get be able to get tested?
We are building up our capacity gradually. By the end of December, we expect to be able to conduct 6,000 tests per week.
- Who will be able to get tested?
For the remainder of first semester, all students are invited to participate and arrange an asymptomatic test. We particularly encourage those students who have remained on campus throughout the first semester and intend to return home for the first time for Christmas to take part to allow them to return home with confidence. Staff who will be working throughout the Christmas break in close proximity to those students who remain with us for the festive period will also have the opportunity to participate.
When arranging a test, students are encouraged to consider their travel plans for returning home and any remaining academic commitments on campus. You should bear in mind that you must take two tests, no less than three days apart.
Next semester, we plan to continue the scheme and details regarding wider roll-out will be provided in due course.
- How to book an asymptomatic test
You can arrange your asymptomatic test by booking online here. You can select a date and time that suits you and you will be asked to attend the Whitla Hall on Main Campus to undertake the test.
- What does the test involve?
You will be given clear instructions and a testing kit to swab your own throat and nostrils. You will then put your swab in a tube and hand it over to a member of staff for processing. You will then be informed of the result by email or text message. You will also have to return to the Whitla Hall for a second test no less then three days after your first test.
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Why should I get tested?
This scheme is an opportunity to play your part in a national programme that will inform wider roll-out and will potentially be of great benefit to the rest of society. It will also provide you with reassurance that you are not potentially spreading the virus, despite the fact you have no symptoms. For those students who have remained on campus throughout first semester and intend to return home for Christmas, having an asymptomatic test will mean that you can return home with confidence.
- What happens if I test positive?
If one of your asymptomatic tests is positive, you will be required to complete a ten-day period of self-isolation and arrange a confirmatory PCR test, as you would do if you had symptoms.
- What happens if I test negative?
If your first asymptomatic test is negative, you must attend for a second confirmatory asymptomatic test. Once you have received a second negative result, you should bear in mind that you may still pick up the virus at any point afterwards. If you are intending to return home for Christmas, you should take all precautions to reduce the risk of transmission before travel and arrange to return home as soon as possible after receiving your second confirmatory negative test result. You should of course ensure that you are able to attend any required face to face teaching or assessments before returning home.
- I intend to travel internationally (outside of the UK) for Christmas - what do I need to do?
If you intend to travel internationally (outside of the UK) for Christmas, you must check if your destination or airline requires evidence of a negative test before travel. In most cases, if you do need to provide evidence of a negative test, then you will need a negative PCR test. This type of test is not being offered as part of this programme so you should make alternative arrangements for a PCR test before travelling.
The University is not able to provide PCR tests if you are asymptomatic but there are a number of private providers in Belfast who offer this service. It is your responsibility to arrange this test at the appropriate time before travelling and to ensure the test you arrange meets the conditions of your destination/airline.
The University is aware of the following private providers in Belfast that is offering tests for those wishing to travel internationally. There are different types of PCR test so please check first if the PCR test being offered by a private provider will be acceptable to your airline or country of destination.
- Is it possible to book an asymptomatic test while in self-isolation?
No, tests are not available to those in self-isolation.
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Can you book two tests in advance? Or should you wait for the result of the first test before booking the second?
You don't have to wait for the results of the first test.
We would encourage you to book two tests in advance.
- How do you reschedule/amend a booking?
You must use your Queen's email address when booking at test.
If you have used your Queen's email address, you will receive a notification that will allow you to amend the booking if necessary.
If you have used a personal email address, it will not be possible to amend or reschedule your booking.
- Will further dates be added for testing?
Currently testing is open until 20 December 2020.
- I am unable to book a test within your preferred timeframe on the booking platform. What should I do?
If you are unable to book a test in your preferred timeframe, please contact the COVID Response Team by emailing: covidtestbooking@qub.ac.uk.
- Where can I find information regarding on-site COVID testing?
Information is available at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/home/coronavirus-faqs/asymptomatic-testing-pilot-programme/
