Testing for the coronavirus is expanding slowly in Oregon

(MARCH 26, 2020) The coronavirus has changed life around the world, including Oregon, at least temporarily. The virus causes a respiratory disease called COVID-19. It is very contagious, which means it spreads from person to person very easily.

People who have the coronavirus should isolate themselves from others. This will help to slow the spread of the disease. However, some people who feel fine might have the virus and not know it. There is a test for the coronavirus, but it is not yet widely available. Not everyone is eligible to take the test yet because there are not enough tests for everyone.

In fact, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), a part of the state government, says this:

"Asymptomatic persons and those with symptoms that do not necessitate medical evaluation are not recommended for testing."

Asymptomatic means a person does not have the symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. OHA says if symptoms are mild, people do not need to be tested. They should, instead, stay at home.

OHA says, "Individuals with mild symptoms that do not necessitate medical evaluation should remain at home until 72 hours after any fever or cough resolve."

Doctors can order tests from private laboratories. OHA suggests that these people -- if they have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath -- should be tested:

• Healthcare workers
• Patients with worsening symptoms
• Patients older than 60 years of age
• Patients with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or lung disease
• Pregnant women
• Patients who had contact with someone who has COVID-19, or someone who traveled to an affected area

As of March 26, 7,269 people in Oregon have been tested. 316 of them have tested positive. 11 people in Oregon have died from COVID-19.

Governor Kate Brown says more tests are coming soon.