Effective immediately, Lehigh Valley Health Network's criteria for testing individuals suspected of having coronavirus have been updated. The new criteria have been implemented at all Assess and Test Centers throughout the LVHN network.

Under the new criteria, only symptomatic people ages 65 and over, symptomatic people at a higher risk of complications and other defined symptomatic at-risk people will be tested for COVID-19.

The new testing criteria was recommended in light of continued regional and national shortages of COVID-19 test kits and other testing supplies. These recommendations reflect the current state of COVID-19 spread in our respective markets and are based on evolving data, observations and availability of testing supplies.

Symptomatic people at a higher risk of complications include those with chronic lung disease and asthma, significant heart disease, immunosuppression, diabetes, morbid obesity, chronic kidney disease and chronic liver disease. In addition, higher risk people include pregnant women, those that reside in long-term care facilities, healthcare workers, and first responders.

Testing of individuals exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 infection and living with someone with a confirmed or presumptive diagnosis of COVID-19 is no longer recommended. These patients can be presumed to have COVID-19 and should be encouraged to follow the same recommendations for infected individuals.

Otherwise healthy individuals who have classic symptoms of COVID-19 infection and who are not considered high-risk based on the testing criteria will no longer be tested. They are encouraged to self-isolate (separate oneself from others) at home, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and take fever-reducing medication.

COVID-19 screening options continue to be available to people exhibiting signs of the infection. These options include accessing LVHN e-visits at LVHN.org/evisit, calling the LVHN information line at 888-402-LVHN or scheduling an LVHN virtual screening at LVHN.org/videoscreening. A medical professional will conduct an evaluation, and, if applicable, will provide a presumptive diagnosis of COVID-19. They will also provide instruction on self-care.

Health care providers advise seeking emergency care immediately if symptoms are getting progressively worse, you're experiencing significant shortness of breath, have chest pain, and can't seem to function in daily activities as you have been. In case of emergency dial 911. Indicate to the dispatcher that you have COVID-19, and, if possible, wear a mask when emergency personnel enter your house to avoid the spread of infection.

If your condition is deemed non-life-threatening, there is no need to go to the emergency room or call 911. Continue to follow the self-care instructions provided by your health care provider.

Asymptomatic patients will not be tested at any LVHN Assess and Test centers. Current tests are only capable of making the diagnosis of active COVID-19. The test does not confirm or rule out a significant exposure.