Quinnipiac University will be installing a special vending machine within the Mount Carmel Student Health Services building that will dispense testing kits for COVID-19.

These self-test kits will allow students to be able to test for the virus on their own, rather than having to go through the school. According to Senior Medical Advisor Dr. David Hill, the idea of the test kit vending machine is to reduce pressure on Student Health Services on campus.

“This is where we are kind of moving to the next phase, let’s say, of COVID on our campus as we’re wanting to have students part with us more,” Hill said. “That’s why we’re making test kits available so that we’re going to put a bit of the burden on the student. Not every student who’s feeling symptoms will have to go to student health and be tested.”

The vending machine will be located within the small room next to the front door of the Student Health Services building, which is open even after hours. Students who still wish to get tested for coronavirus by a health official will be able to do so and can make appointments to go to Student Health Services to get tested.

Giving out self-test kits through vending machines was first announced by university President Judy Olian last week. According to Hill, the process for students to take the kits is simple.

“Each student will be able to get three tests for free. That will be linked to their Q-Card,” Hill said. “If things go well, we hope to get a second vending machine in North Haven.”

As for when the machine for Mount Carmel will be up and running, Hill thinks it will be here soon, and said that the electronics and other parts are being installed first.

“Will that happen this week? Probably not. Hopefully next week,” Hill said.

The test kit vending machine is part of Quinnipiac University’s response to the coronavirus pandemic in the spring. Other initiatives include a recent booster clinic and changes to how long students must stay in isolation.

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