On-Campus Testing FAQs
What type of test is being administered at UH?
Curative Kiosk:
The Curative testing kiosk in front of the UH Student Center offers oral-fluid swab PCR testing. The observed and directed self-collected oral fluid swab involves having the person cough deeply three times first, which releases virus from the upper and lower respiratory tract. The virus is then caught in the saliva, the patient then swabs the inside of their cheeks and the roofs of their mouths. Once complete, the patient seals their test within a secure container and returns it to a Curative employee to be sent to the lab. Results are expected within 24-48 hours of the test being received at the lab.
UH Student Health Center:
The UH Student Health Center offers the SARS CoV-2 RT-PCR test. A sample is gathered by nasal swab.
Does UH require mandatory testing for students or employees?
UH does not require mandatory testing. In guidance issued to universities on June 30, the CDC said “testing of all students, faculty and staff for COVID-19 before allowing campus entry (entry testing) has not been systematically studied” and “the CDC does not recommend entry testing of all returning students, faculty, and staff.”
When can I return to campus if I have tested positive for COVID-19 and have been instructed to self-isolate?
Written approval is required before any UH community member may return to campus after self-isolation. The timing of your return depends on whether you have exhibited Coronavirus Symptoms or not. See Completion of Self-Quarantine/Isolation for the process and considerations for determining when a return to campus is allowed.
What do I do if I am diagnosed with COVID-19?
If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, do not come to campus (even if you are symptom-free). Follow the CDC Guidance on What to Do If You Are Sick.
What should I do if I have had close contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19 or is suspected/presumed to have COVID-19?
Follow the protocol described in Potential Exposure to Coronavirus.
Do I need a negative test or doctor’s note to be able to return to campus after a positive test and self-isolation?
No, the university does not require a negative test or a doctor's note or request negative lab results for return to work/class/campus nor is this type of test-based strategy recommended by the CDC. However, you must first be approved to return to campus before resuming your normal school, work and related activities. To initiate the process to return to campus following a positive COVID-19 diagnoses, complete the form Request to Return to Campus.
Does UH offer testing to the public?
No. Patients who do not have a primary care physician can be evaluated and tested at the Lone Star Circle of Care @ UH clinic in the Health 2 building on campus; appointments can be scheduled at 877-800-5722.