In August, Florida A&M University launched another step toward its goal to “Protect the FAMU-ly” from COVID-19.
This new feature, located on the school’s mobile app, provides a self-assessment screening that is expected to be used daily by individuals who visit campus or take part in face-to-face classes.
The purpose of the COVID Self-Checker is to help these individuals make a decision about seeking medical attention based on the symptoms they are experiencing and possible places of exposure.
Before going to campus or class, individuals are to answer the short questions provided on the app. If the response is “NOT CLEARED” then these individuals are asked to stay home and get tested for COVID-19, avoid contact with other people, notify their supervisor/professor of their absence, and contact their health care provider if they are experiencing new or worsening symptoms.
The information provided on this assessment is completely confidential and is only viewed by individuals who are approved by the director of Student Health Services, Tanya Tatum.
This a great initiative to help flatten the curve, but many students are not aware of the app and the role it plays in keeping them safe on campus.
“The COVID self-check app was not publicized enough in my opinion,” said Kyndal Perry, a third-year business administration student at Florida A&M University. “I was not aware of the app until a fellow student brought it up. I know that if I did not know then others did not either.”
Now that schools have reopened, it’s important to enforce the initiatives put into place. With the new on-campus curfew, it is evident that FAMU is working to create a safer environment.
In a Zoom press conference Tuesday, FAMU President Larry Robinson said that since August 20, 20 employees and 14 students have tested positive for COVID-19.
The FAMU Mobile App can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Florida A&M University is also offering walk-up testing at Bragg Memorial Stadium from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.