WMU plans COVID testing blitz

Western Michigan University wants to make sure students returning to campus in the next week are clear of COVID-19. That’s why they are holding a rapid COVID testing event for the next five days.

Between Thursday, August 27 and Monday, August 31, any student or employee who wants to be tested can be tested for free at the school’s Sindecuse Health Center.

“The idea is to have everyone that has a desire an opportunity to be able to be tested,” said Dr. Gayle Ruggiero, the interim medical director for Sindecuse. “You can be tested because you have symptoms or exposure, or you can be tested if you’re asymptomatic and unexposed.”

The goal is to have as many students tested as possible ahead of the start of the fall semester, especially students who are living on-campus in student housing or dorms.

The university is using rapid-testing equipment that can return results in as little as 15 minutes. Staff will contact those tested with results within an hour. If someone tests positive, staff will be able to begin contact tracing immediately.

Those seeking testing need to make an appointment ahead of time by calling (269) 387-3287.