newsMarch 3, 2022

COVID-19: Free rapid test kits available for students, faculty and staff

Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s has received a one-time shipment of self-administered rapid antigen rests from the Provincial Health Services. These tests have been given to Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s to support the continuity of on-campus learning, instruction, and operations.

All in-person students, faculty and staff are eligible for one test kit. Each test kit contains five single-use rapid tests. The tests are being distributed as a proactive measure to ensure students, faculty and staff have access to tests when they need them.

These rapid tests are part of the many layers of protection, such as mask wearing, social distancing, and hand sanitizer use, that support health and well-being on campus. Vaccines remain the most effective way to reduce the risk of COVID-19. Everyone eligible is strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

 

How to get tests

If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, please do not come to campus to collect a test kit. Anyone experiencing symptoms should assume they are ill and stay home until their symptoms are gone or they feel well enough to resume regular activities.

 

Students

Collect your test kit from James or Janice at the Main Office. Tests must be collected by March 31, 2022.

Students must present a valid Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s Student ID card to receive test kits, and must be present in person. If you do not have a Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s Student ID Card, which will also be required for in-person final exams, please contact Gerard Garcia at [email protected] or visit the Student Development Office in Plato’s Cave.

 

Faculty and Staff

Collect your test kits from James or Janice at the Main Office. Tests must be collected by March 31, 2022.

All full and part-time employees working in person are eligible for one test kit, each kit containing five rapid tests.

 

When to use tests

Once you have your tests, keep and use them to confirm your COVID status when you are experiencing symptoms. Tests should be used by symptomatic individuals only, in alignment with current public health guidance. They are being distributed in advance as a proactive measure to ensure students, faculty and staff have access to tests when they need them.

Visit the BCCDC website to find instructions for at-home rapid antigen tests. Be sure to follow all test kit procedures and safety precautions carefully, and please be aware of the public advisory issued by Health Canada.

 

Test results

Individuals who test positive should follow the steps outlined by the BCCDC in If You Have COVID-19.

Individuals who test negative (but have symptoms) should stay home, continue to monitor their symptoms, follow public health guidance and limit contacts. Anyone experiencing symptoms should stay home until their symptoms are gone or they feel well enough to resume regular activities.

 

*A previous email to students, faculty and staff stated that 1-2 test kits were available for each person. Due to limited supplies and high demand, one kit containing five tests is available for each person.