Covid: Leicester University starts testing for Christmas exodus
Written by Charlie Jackson
From December 3-9, students can go home for Christmas in the ‘student travel window’, but are advised to take a test to reduce the risk of passing Coronavirus on to their loved ones, the Government has announced.
Aleisha Hartsilver, a first-year student at the University of Leicester, said:
“I’ll do a test no problem. I’ve done one before and it’s so quick that it’s not an issue for me. I’d rather be safe than risk spreading COVID to my family/others.”
If a student tests positive, 10 days of self-isolation will be needed before they depart home.
Universities Minister Michelle Donelan has said:
“We know this Christmas will feel different, and following this incredibly difficult year we are delivering on our commitment to get students back to their loved ones as safely as possible for the holidays”.
Most students plan on returning home after the lockdown is lifted on the 2nd as soon as possible.
They believe testing is the safest and fastest way to get back to their families for the festive period.
Although most see testing as essential, Liam Richards, another student at the University of Leicester, believes being tested is not needed when he will have been in a month-long lockdown beforehand.
Although, Liam said: “If my family wanted me to, I would get tested”.
There are a few students who see testing capacity as a problem. With universities in areas of high prevalence being prioritised, they believe there will not be enough tests for every student.
Jack Tee, who is also studying at the University of Leicester, said: “If the capacity is there” he will get tested.
Charlie Jackson is a first-year journalism student. He can be found on instagram @_charliejackson.
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