Surveillance Testing FAQ
Why is Seton Hall expanding contact tracing?
From the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the University's decision making has
been led by doing what is best for the health and safety of our community. As we witness
the increased transmission of COVID-19 in our local and regional area, we determined
that increasing surveillance testing would assist in identifying positive cases of
COVID-19, particularly for those students who are asymptomatic.
Why is identifying positive cases in asymptomatic individuals important?
If someone is asymptomatic, they may feel fine, but they are still capable of transmitting
the virus to others. Therefore, it is important that anyone who is positive for COVID-19,
even if they have no symptoms, isolate for 10 days, and if they have symptoms until
they are fever free for 24-hours and those symptoms have improved.
Who will be doing the testing?
Seton Hall has partnered with Healthcare IT Leaders, a national provider of healthcare
delivery, and the same company who is assisting us with the extensive surveillance
testing protocols for our Athletics program required as part of the Big East and NCAA.
Who will be tested?
Every student at all of our campuses – South Orange, Interprofessional Health Sciences,
Law School – who comes to campus at least once per week. We will test approximately
1/3 of the students at each campus each week for three weeks, beginning on February
9th and 10th.
How will I know when I'm to test?
You will receive an email to your SHU email account with specific instructions for
you and your campus. Each campus will have slightly different testing site/distribution,
recognizing the size of the campus and the number of students testing.
Is the testing required?
Yes. This is an important part of keeping you and our entire community safe.
Is anyone exempt from testing?
Yes. If you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should NOT
participate in surveillance testing. This will be stressed to you in the email you
receive, and you will be asked to complete a form indicating the exemption. Again
– be sure to check your SHU email!
How will I get my test results?
You will receive an email to your SHU email account within 2-4 days of your test with
your test results. If you test positive, you will also receive a phone call from
the lab that processes the test to give you general guidance. You will also be contacted
by SHU Health Services with more specific information regarding Seton Hall protocols
and assistance.
What else should I know?
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, DO NOT go to surveillance testing. Please contact Health
Services (973-761-9175) or your health care provider immediately. Surveillance testing
is NOT for symptomatic individuals.
What if I have more questions?
Please fill out the HICT Contact Us Form with any questions.
Don't forget to Take and Follow the Seton Hall Pledge – we are stronger together!