“At this moment, we do not have the supply to test every resident. We are using very specific conditions to evaluate whether or not to test for COVID-19. This will ensure that we prioritize the resources to meet the most urgent public health need,” said Public Health Director Eric Faisst.
At this time, local health officials are following the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) recommendations to focus on only testing the people with symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) that fall into one of these categories to conserve our testing supplies:
- Has come into close contact (same office, classroom, gatherings) of another person known to be positive; or
- Has traveled to a country that the CDC has issued a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice; or
- Is currently is under quarantine; or
- Has already tested negative for other types of infections (rapid flu tests, respiratory panel)
Only residents who meet one of the above testing criteria should contact their healthcare provider to get tested. This will allow healthcare providers and Madison County Health Department to focus on the residents with the most need.
It is important to note that while awaiting test results, patients will be placed on quarantine to protect the health of others. Madison County Health Department will work with the patient before they leave their healthcare provider’s office to determine the best location for quarantine. Madison County Health Department will remain in contact with the patient daily until the test results are reported.
Madison County Health Department would like to remind people is that it is not enough for only sick people to stay away from public spaces. Everyone needs to practice social distancing at this time.
“We encourage community members to change their behavior by avoiding unnecessary activities. This concept of social distancing is a strategy used to slow and ultimately, stop the spread of germs. Limit your exposure to other people, whether to protect yourself from getting the virus or not wanting to unknowingly spread it to others,” said Faisst. In effect, stay home.
For the New York State Department of Health criteria for testing, visit: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing#protocol-for-testing.
For more information and the most accurate numbers on COVID-19 testing of Madison County residents, visit: https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2479/Coronavirus-COVID-19.
