The IIID team, under the guidance of Professor Simon Mallal has set up a COVID testing surveillance program to identify students with detectable virus using a quick non-invasive saliva-based PCR test. 

“As we know many people who contract COVID are asymptomatic. The benefit of this surveillance program is that we are providing a simple test for students to complete at home. Students can conveniently and easily can pick up a kit from the IIID testing facility, take their saliva sample at home then drop it back to one of our collection sites” Associate Professor Chopra said.

Using a saliva sample rather than an invasive nasal swab, this test will help identify asymptomatic cases, which is important for people who may not actually have symptoms and will be useful to students for monitoring their COVID status.

We’d love your participation in this great new innovative program, which will help keep you better informed about your COVID status and ultimately keep you, your families and the community safer in a very uncertain time.  

Want to get involved or learn more? 

Watch this video about how the program works.

Complete the IIID registration form to participate. 

Contact IIID team, call 9360 1363 or email for more details or to request an information session for your team.

Visit IIID website for details on collection and drop off locations.

COVID Surveillance Program - Frequently Asked Questions? 

When or where can I pick up a test or drop off my sample? 

The team at IIID will run through full program details with participants before commencing, including information on pick up, drop off and sample requirements. At this stage, collection sites will be available to students on Mondays and Thursdays, with samples to be dropped off before 9.30am. More days and times may be added as participation in the program increases. 

Why participate in this if I can do a RAT or a PCR? 

Although the Government is providing free RATs to households, the numbers are limited, and PCR tests will only be taken if you are symptomatic. The IIID surveillance tests are voluntary, free and easy way to provide peace of mind to participants. Also, our tests are more reliable than RATs and less invasive because they only require saliva, not a nasal swab.

What if I do a test and it comes back positive?

You will be notified if your test is negative or positive and if you are positive, you will be advised to arrange a RAT or PCR test. Positive results are shared with the Murdoch clinic for support and clinical advice purposes only.

Can I come and pick up a test, if I already have symptoms?

No. If you have symptoms consistent with COVID infection, then you should stay home and immediately get tested at a state designated testing site and/or use RAT testing. Please ensure you follow WA Health COVID advice and guidance.

How will I get results?

Via MyCap app, which is securely linked to the RedCap system we use for your registration details. Messages, including test results will be send via the mobile app, which is a safe and secure platform. Positive results will be shared with the Murdoch Clinic for support and clinical advice purposes only. 

What about privacy?

We take your privacy seriously. Your registration is stored on a secure system and only a small number of medical laboratories trained staff and medical practitioners will have access to. All samples are fully deidentified and can only be linked back to individuals by a limited number of fully trained staff. 

Is participation a once off? Or if it’s on-going, can I withdraw at any time? 

You may withdraw from the program, you simply email IIID asking for your registration details to be removed along with any test results.