Testing for COVID-19

Adirondack Pediatrics would like to take a moment to provide an update on testing for COVID-19. Per CDC guidelines, Adirondack Pediatrics is following PRIORITY testing guidelines listed below.  We have reviewed with local public health and continues to adjust our practice with this fluid situation.

• Hospitalized patients who have signs and symptoms compatible with COVID-19 in order to inform decisions related to infection control.

• Other symptomatic individuals such as, older adults (age ≥ 65 years) and individuals with chronic medical conditions and/or immuno-compromised state that may put them at higher risk for poor outcomes (e.g. diabetes, heart disease, receiving immuno-suppressive medications, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease).

• Any persons including healthcare personnel, who within 14 days of symptom onset had close contact with a suspect or laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patient, or who have a history of travel from affected geographic areas within 14 days of their symptom onset.

Mildly ill patients should be encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare providers by phone for guidance about clinical management.  Patients who have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should seek care immediately.  Older Patients and individuals who have underlying medical conditions or are immuno-compromised should contact their physician early in the course of even mild illness.

Previous updates about COVID-19