San Diego State University is offering more than just snacks in its vending machines. The school is rolling out more than a dozen COVID-19 test vending machines across campus.
The do-it-yourself COVID-19 test can be accessed from a vending machine for free with a student identification number using a phone app.
The rollout is part of the schools safety plan to mitigate the spread of the virus now that in-person classes have resumed.
According to the schools Health and Human Services website, the vending machines are part of the schools new testing program to help test unvaccinated people.
Rigorous guidelines from the California State University system are requiring all students and staff to be vaccinated.
Those who qualify for an exemption from getting the vaccine, will have to submit to weekly COVID-19 testing.
Heidi Nguyen, a staff member at SDSU, said testing sites across the county have not been easy to get to, but these grab and go kits make testing convenient.
She also said it’s a great preventative measure.
“If you're worried that you have any symptoms, it just makes it very easy to pop on over here and grab one as opposed to just hoping you're okay,” Nguyen said.
According to the school's COVID-19 dashboard, there’s been 15 confirmed cases among students in the last seven days.
Nearly 20 COVID-19 test vending machines have been installed across campus. Each one has a drop off box and they’re available 24 hours a day.
The ongoing testing program is available for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status.
In addition, SDSU will continue to offer its testing services with Health and Human Services.
