As of Thursday, March 26, 2020, CGH Medical Center, Sterling, IL, has tested 143 individuals for COVID-19. Of these tests, we have received one positive (previously announced on Sunday, March 15,) and 51 negative results.
Please note: COVID-19 testing is done through IDPH or commercial labs. As they have all been inundated with COVID-19 testing, the turnaround time for results has grown to five+ days.
The over-testing of patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms by other health systems and organizations has contributed to longer turnaround times for testing results. This could potentially delay a diagnosis for those who are critically ill, effect their treatment, and adversely impact the safety of our employees providing that care.
Therefore, based on recommendations from IDPH and CDC, testing is not recommended for all patients, those with mild-to-moderate symptoms. Testing for COVID-19 does not change how you are treated. You still would be required to stay home; push [drink plenty of] fluids; give it time.
However, testing is recommended for severe infection (those in the hospital) or those in long-term care facilities.