While Northwestern positive COVID-19 cases have been declining since the first week of the quarter, the University’s positivity rate increased this week with fewer tests taken.

The University did not mandate testing this week, marking the first week since the start of the quarter without required testing. NU administered 4,000 fewer tests than last week and saw 181 new positive cases compared to last week’s 229, following the declining trend since the start of January.

However, likely because fewer tests were taken, the positivity rate has gone up to 2.4% from last week’s 2.01%. 

Undergraduate students accounted for 48% of positive cases, with 86 this week. Non-undergraduate students constitute 54 of the positive tests, while faculty and staff account for 25 and 16 of the remaining cases, respectively.

NU students, faculty and staff are able to receive free, in-person asymptomatic testing at the Donald P. Jacobs Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m on weekdays. Those with symptoms should use the northwest side testing entrance at the Jacobs Center to receive in-person testing between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @amittal27

Related Stories:

— Positive COVID-19 test numbers drop at Northwestern one-third from week prior

— How to order 4 free, at-home COVID-19 tests for your household

— The Daily Explains: Interpreting COVID-19 test results at Northwestern