As part of the University’s layered approach to COVID-19 testing, the U of M MRC developed a COVID-19 Rapid Response Saliva Testing Team. This team will be responsible for conducting COVID-19 saliva testing in the event of:

• Newly identified cluster of cases on campus
• An outbreak of cases related to an identifiable group and/or location on campus

Team members will: 

• Deploy as a team under the guidance of a team lead
• Bring saliva test kits to the individuals/groups connected to the outbreak or cluster
• Observe individuals providing their saliva sample
• Follow safe protocols for handling and delivery of samples to the COVID testing lab
• Be provided appropriate personal protective equipment

Roles:

• Registration Clerk: Welcome and register individuals to be tested
• Saliva Test Observer: Instruct individuals on saliva test process and observe proper collection of saliva sample
• Logistics Support Staff: Responsible for site set up and supplies

Position Checklists

• Registration Clerk
• Logistics Support Staff
• Observer

Team Member Requirements:  

• Has completed mandatory online HIPAA training (Link to HIPAA Training)
• Is willing to participate in a mandatory, 30-minute online training session on saliva testing
• Non-medical and medical members are encouraged to join this team
• Available within 24-hours notice to deploy to testing site

When: 

• On an as needed basis (emergence of a cluster of cases or outbreaks) throughout the fall semester
• Anticipated shifts for this team are dependent on the size of the cluster and the number of individuals identified as needing testing
• Anticipated length of shifts will range from 2 to 4 hours

Scheduling: To Be Determined

• Anticipated length of shifts will range from 2 to 4 hours
• Testing hours will fall between 8am to 7pm seven days a week and will be determined by the size of the outbreak

Location: 

• U of M Twin Cities Campus

Training:

• Vault training video
• Team meeting presentation
• Read this FAQ for answers to commonly asked questions

Applications for membership Rapid Response Saliva Testing Team have been placed on hold as of January 2023.