U of G's Set for September emails help you prepare for your classes and experiences this fall. In this edition, learn more about COVID-19 testing.

COVID-19 testing: Why, when and where?

Getting tested for COVID-19 can reduce the spread in our community, but it helps to understand how the virus works and when you should get tested. Public Health offers the following advice on COVID-19 testing.

The Why

The virus that causes COVID-19, is highly transmissible through respiratory droplets: saliva, mucus or other moisture from your respiratory system.

That's why the Government of Ontario is limiting the size of social gatherings and encouraging people to form and maintain social circles. Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health advises no more than 10 people at gatherings in Guelph.

The virus can be transmitted in many ways, including when someone who has COVID-19:

• Is close to you for 15 minutes or longer without wearing a face covering (like having a conversation over coffee)
• Shares their food, drink, vape, etc. with you
• Coughs or sneezes on you, near you or on something that you touch before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

The less you expose yourself to risk, the less likely you are to get sick.

The When

Because the virus can be transmitted before someone shows symptoms of COVID-19, you should consider getting tested if you know or suspect you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or who has tested positive for the virus. 

If you have at least one symptom of COVID-19, contact Student Health at 519-824-4120, Ext. 52131, for advice on when to go for testing.

If you have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, you may be contacted by Public Health and given direction on testing, monitoring for symptoms and isolating.

By downloading the Government of Canada's COVID Alert app, you may be able to find out if you have been exposed to the virus before you start showing symptoms. That's useful if you're in close contact with others but don't know each other's contact info.

The Where

Students living in Guelph can book an appointment to receive a COVID-19 test from Student Health Services (SHS). The priority is to test those who have symptoms or who have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. If you have reason to think you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, SHS will do their best to test you, too.

To book a COVID-19 test with SHS, call 519-824-4120, Ext. 52131. Do not show up at Student Health Services without an appointment.

If you live in Guelph, you can get tested at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre at 400 Southgate Dr.

If you live outside of Guelph, check with your local public health unit for info on testing locations.

The University's COVID-19 website is your best source of information on U of G's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Return to Campuses website provides essential information for those coming to campus. If you need to be on campus, make sure you complete the U of G COVID-19 Screening Form every day before you arrive.