North Carolina will be providing COVID-19 tests to colleges and universities across the state as holiday breaks approach, ABC 13 News reported.
North Carolina Gov. Roy CooperThe North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is sending 74,470 rapid antigen tests to both public and private schools in the state to test students before they travel home or celebrate the holidays with people who live outside their household, ABC 13 News reported.
The department – in conjunction with Guilford, Harnett, New Hanover, Mecklenburg and Pitt counties – is also hosting community testing events near campuses.
“We encourage everyone to plan ahead and get a COVID-19 test before they leave campus or gather with friends and family over the holidays,” NCDHHS Secretary Mandy K. Cohen said. “But even if a test result is negative, it’s not a guarantee. Tests represent a moment in time. So students and their families should still practice the 3Ws and wear a mask, wash hands often, and keep a distance of 6 feet from others.”
In addition to releasing guidance for safer holiday breaks, NCDHHS recommends a COVID-19 test three to four days prior to any travel or celebration with people not from one’s household.
