What it takes to get COVID-19 testing in Illinois

MENDOTA – Coronavirus testing is limited in Illinois with protocols in place to prioritize those tested. On Monday, OSF St. Paul’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Leonardo Lopez said the hospital is following the guidance of the Illinois Department of Public Health to determine who gets tested.

 
Lopez says the most concerning symptom would be shortness of breath followed by a fever and decreased urination.
According to LaSalle County’s Health Department, the State Public Health laboratories are currently only testing hospitalized patients and clusters in a congregate setting that serves more vulnerable populations such as an assisted living facility, homeless shelter or correctional setting.
Lopez says for the most part, most patients will probably have mild disease and recommend self-isolation.

For those experiencing symptoms, pain medication and fever medication like Tylenol can relieve some symptoms.
If an individual is not approved for testing, healthcare providers can request testing through a commercial lab.