March 23rd, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Allegany County Health Department in partnership with Allegany County Government report the following data on local COVID-19 testing to date:

 

Allegany County residents tested positive for COVID-19	0
Allegany County residents tested negative for COVID-19	141
Allegany County residents with COVID-19 results pending	23
Total Allegany County residents tested for COVID-19	164

 

“At this time, there are no lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Allegany County. However, this doesn’t mean that the virus isn’t present in our community,” said Jenelle Mayer, Health Officer.  “Community members should take precautions and practice social distancing to prevent the spread of disease.” 

Health officials continue to ask community members to stay home as much as possible and only go out for essentials; wash your hands often; disinfect high-touch surfaces; if you are not feeling well, avoid contact with others; and if you are seeking medical care, call ahead so your healthcare provider can offer guidance over the phone and take the necessary precautions if you must come into the office.

Laboratories are experiencing a surge in COVID-19 tests.  Testing is prioritized for hospitalized patients, symptomatic healthcare workers and emergency responders, symptomatic patients who are medically fragile and live in congregate housing such as nursing homes, and symptomatic high-risk unstable patients whose care would be altered by a diagnosis of COVID-19.

“Testing today for COVID-19 is not as simple as it sounds,” said Dr. Jennifer Corder, the Allegany and Garrett County Deputy Health Officer. “Testing supplies are in short supply, and

labs are unable to keep up with the nationwide demand.  As a community, we need to prioritize testing for our sickest and most at risk.  Speak to your health care provider over the phone to determine if your case requires COVID-19 testing.”