Are you prepared for your second saliva test?

· 3 min read

Are you prepared for your second saliva test?

Chancellor Ronnie Green hands his saliva vial to Kaitlin Cartwright at the collection site by East Memorial Stadium. Green was one of more than 4,000 Huskers who were tested on Jan. 19, the first day testing was offered to the entire campus community.
Craig Chandler | University Communication

To maintain access to campus buildings, most Huskers participating in the university’s saliva-based COVID-19 testing are approaching time to complete the second of two required spring re-entry tests. The two tests are to occur about 10 days apart. Here’s what you need to know to stay in compliance.

When is my second test?

Safer Community app users can find their second test due date under the “Next Step” header. These users should complete their second test one day prior to the next test result due date in the Safer Community app.

Huskers without smartphones who are using the COVID-19 Testing Portal should schedule the second test to occur on the ninth day after their first test. For example, if you tested on Jan. 19, your test should occur on Jan. 28. Building access will expire at midnight 10 days after the first testing date (i.e., end of the day on Jan. 29 in the above example).

How do I schedule the test?

Safer Community app users can schedule a test quickly by clicking “Find Test Location.” This brings up a list of all testing locations and users should pick a site and time that is most convenient to them. Be sure to schedule the test to occur at least one day prior to the second-test next result due date.

Huskers without smartphones who are using the COVID-19 Testing Portal should log on and click “Test Scheduling.” It opens a window that lists all testing locations and allows the user to select a site and time that is most convenient to them. Be sure to schedule the second test on the ninth day after the first saliva test. Same day testing is available.

The reservation systems for the Safer Community app and the COVID-19 Testing Portal both allow reservations up to six days ahead. Users should wait 48 to 72 hours after receiving results before attempting to schedule their second test.

Video: Saliva testing tips

What if I don’t complete my second saliva test on time?

Failing to complete the second saliva test within 10 days of the first will result in your building access being denied. Users will need to make up the test as soon as possible to regain building access granted status and to avoid further consequences.

Will I need to be tested more than twice?

The university is working with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department to determine the need for testing beyond this two-test reentry protocol. If needed, details will be announced.

Is it too late to begin the testing process?

No. Any student, instructor or staff who wishes to be on campus in the spring semester can gain building access by beginning the two-test reentry process. Complete details on how to get started are available on the COVID-19 website.

Can I substitute a test from outside campus to gain access?

No. Only negative results gained through the university’s saliva-based testing program can be used toward being granted access to campus facilities. Any outside tests in the past 90 days resulting in a positive test should be submitted to request an exemption. One approved, an exemption results in an “access granted” status for the duration of the 90 days.

Where can I go for more information?

Complete details about the testing process and the university’s multi-layered approach to protecting campus and limiting potential spread of COVID-19 are available on the university’s COVID-19 website.

Recent News