Purdue to suspend routine surveillance testing

With low campus COVID-19 case numbers and the campus community’s continued commitment to protecting Purdue, Purdue University is suspending routine surveillance testing for COVID-19 for students and employees on our West Lafayette campus, effective today (April 1).

As part of the Protect Purdue Plan, Boilermakers have had the choice to protect Purdue by either getting vaccinated or participating in routine surveillance testing. The campus community is now 90% vaccinated and, according to our medical team, our overall immunity is in excess of 92%. Since March 18, more than 2,000 routine surveillance tests have been performed, rendering six positive cases or a 0.3% positivity rate.

We will continue on-demand targeted testing, as needed, for individuals and groups, vaccinated and unvaccinated, where potential spread of infection is possible and case numbers might be growing.

Wastewater surveillance testing for COVID-19 is ongoing and being conducted in collaboration with the city of West Lafayette. To date, viral load in surveyed wastewater at Purdue has been very low, consistent with our very low campus case load. A plan is in place to conduct more detailed wastewater testing if needed. 

The Protect Purdue Medical Advisory Team and the Protect Purdue Implementation Team continue to be guided by the latest science and medical experts, and all rules and regulations are subject to change. If a change in circumstances arises – such as a surge in case numbers or new variants emerge – routine surveillance testing could be reinstated. 

Being up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations continues to be the most effective preventative measure against COVID-19. Vaccines and boosters continue to be available at no cost at Purdue’s campus vaccine clinic.

At Purdue, we remain committed to protecting others and our campus community as well. If you are sick or experiencing symptoms, continue to stay home, away from others, and arrange to get tested. 

Thank you again for your continued efforts to protect yourself, others and the Purdue community.