TUCSON, Ariz. - The University of Arizona is preparing for what it's calling its November testing blitz, which is set to begin this week.
Liesl Folks, the University of Arizona's Provost, told KGUN9 the university is trying to test all students, staff and faculty before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Folks said the purpose of the testing blitz is to stop anyone from the university from spreading the virus.
“We’re particularly concerned about Thanksgiving because it’s a time when many people tend to spend time with older loved ones who we know are at a much more serious coronavirus complication," said Folks.
Folks said university administration has sent a survey to all students, faculty, and staff asking what their plan for Thanksgiving is. She said that if a someone responds with a travel plan, they're encouraged to get a COVID-19 test 10 days before their travel date.
“What we want to make really certain of is that no student, staff or faculty member goes to a thanksgiving event and infects someone who is high risk.”
Folks added that after the holiday break, the university is recommending those who travel stay home and only return to Tucson once the spring semester begins.
“The hope os they’ll go home for Thanksgiving and come back for the spring semester and rejoin us at that time," said Folks.
