COVID-19 tester in Waukon could be shared with long term care facilities in Decorah

The State of Iowa has sent to Waukon an Abbott ID Now instrument for rapid COVID-19 testing. 

Use of the machine is limited to testing in long term care facilities, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and residential care facilities.  But in addition to being used in Waukon, the tester at Veterans Memorial Hospital can be sent to such facilities within a 30 mile radius of Waukon--including nursing homes in Decorah. 

These tests must still be ordered by a provider or the State Epidemiologist.  Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon received the machine because testing is not widely available in Allamakee County and Northeast Iowa.

These tests are designated to be used for high priority specimens requiring rapid result, especially when actions will be taken based on the results.

At this time, this machine will not be used for any other reason than testing at nursing homes.  Other COVID-19 tests will still be sent to the State of Iowa Laboratory or to other testing labs.