CHICAGO (WSIL) � Illinois is the first state in the U.S. to perform in-state testing for the 2019 novel coronavirus, the said Tuesday.
Test results are typically available within 24 hours once specimens are received at the IDPH laboratory in Chicago.
The agency is in the process of bringing the testing to its labs in Springfield and Carbondale.
“The ability to do this testing will mean we will be able to detect any new cases of novel coronavirus earlier and prevent any possible spread,� said IDPH Assistant Director Evonda Thomas-Smith. “We understand there is concern about this new virus, which is why having test results back quickly can help reduce some of those concerns.�
“It’s an exciting development to be able to add this tool to our arsenal as we work to limit the spread of this virus,� said Allison Arwady, MD, MPH, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. “A quicker response will help alleviate concerns of those being tested as well as the general public. We continue to work very closely with federal, state, and local partners to ensure that we have a robust and coordinated public health response to emerging infectious diseases.�
Currently, two Illinois residents have tested positive for the 2019 novel coronavirus. Test results for 44 others have come back negative.
The Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Poison Center have announced a hotline for residents to call if they have questions about the new coronavirus.
Residents in Illinois outside Chicago can call the hotline at 800-889-3931 or email [email protected]. The number for Chicago residents is 312-746-4835 Monday through Friday during business hours and 311 during evenings, weekends, and holidays, or email [email protected].
