In the weeks following the start of the fall semester for college students, universities across the country have struggled to keep COVID-19 cases from soaring on campus. In North Carolina, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State have reported a combined 1,700+ COVID-19 cases since classes began in early August.

So, where does Duke stand? According to testing results updated on Monday, August 31, over 17,000 tests have been administered to Duke students, faculty and staff since August 2. Of those, Duke has recorded 46 positive results. 46!

A recent Herald Sun article explains how mass testing prior to students’ arrival on campus – also known as baseline testing – and pooled testing of asymptomatic students and employees have played a significant role in keeping Duke’s COVID-19 cases under control.

Time will tell if we can maintain our success, but, for now, we’ll celebrate this small victory.

Visit Duke’s COVID Testing Tracker for more information on the university’s testing program. Results are updated weekly.

About the author

Brandy Chieco

brandolyn.chieco@duke.edu

Brandy oversees marketing and communications, events and special initiatives for the Office of Gift Planning. She works closely with donors who are featured in Duke Magazine, the Blueprints blog and other publications. She also works closely with development teams, schools and alumni volunteers as part of our comprehensive reunion efforts. Prior to joining the team, Brandy worked in marketing, human resources and banking. She received her B.A. degree in English from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. When she is not in the office, Brandy enjoys local theatre, exploring the diverse Durham food scene and spending quality time with her husband and son.