Anyone with mild symptoms of COVID-19 can now get tested for the disease, state officials announced Tuesday.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says anyone with symptoms of the illness caused by the novel coronavirus -- such as fever, cough or shortness of breath -- should contact their healthcare provider, a nurse hotline or telehealth program to evaluate whether they should be tested for the disease..

Testing was previously limited to hospitalized patients and symptomatic people in at-risk groups such as the elderly or those with immuno-compromising diseases. First responders, health care workers and “critical infrastructure” workers with symptoms were also able to get a test, according to a news release from the state.

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Joneigh Khaldun, the state’s chief medical executive, said additional testing will help officials better understand the state’s outbreak.

“Expanded testing is needed to learn more about how COVID-19 is spreading in our state,” Khaldun said in a statement. “We want to make sure people know that if they have symptoms, they should work with their medical provider to be tested.”

Each coronavirus test provider will determine if testing is appropriate based on symptoms and test availability in their area, according to the release.

Some drive-up testing sites across the state have not required doctor’s referrals for testing. Instead, many health systems pre-screened individuals to determine if their symptoms met the perimeters for testing.

Drive-thru coronavirus testing coming to Oakland County this week, no prescription required

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The state saw its second-deadliest day of the outbreak Tuesday, April 14, with 166 additional deaths reported. Michigan now has more than 27,000 cases of the novel coronavirus, one of the largest statewide outbreaks in the United States.

Coronavirus deaths surge again during Michigan’s second-deadliest day

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and when you go into places like stores.

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