Chaffee County Public Health is modifying its COVID-19 testing strategies based on new information and data gathered as they learn more about the Omicron variant while also experiencing a testing supply shortage.

The following tests will be utilized:

Abbott Binax Now- Due to a significant shortage of these rapid antigen tests throughout the country, CCPH will be utilizing them to detect infection in the school setting for those who are symptomatic.

CUE – This molecular rapid test will be used for essential workers who are symptomatic and are needed for critical operations. CCPH reserves the right to use this test sparingly and only in the most time sensitive situations.

PCR – This gold standard test will be administered to members of the general public who are symptomatic or a close contact. Currently, there is a significant delay in receiving test results due to staffing shortages at the state health department lab and increased demand. Therefore, those who are receiving this type of test should anticipate a turnaround time of up to 5 days. People who have recently tested and are awaiting their results are urged not to call or e-mail CCPH but rather follow the appropriate guidance for the situation and wait for CCPH to contact them.

While all CCPH testing options are free, there are ample opportunities to obtain a COVID-19 test throughout the county at a cost. A comprehensive list of testing options throughout the county can be found at: bit.ly/ChaffeeCOVIDTesting.

As a reminder,

If you receive a negative result with a Binax Now test:

• It is imperative that these tests are followed up by a more sensitive PCR test.
• While waiting for a confirmatory test result, people should self-isolate or quarantine until they receive their test results.
• More information about isolation and quarantine can be found at: bit.ly/ChaffeeQuarantine.

If you receive a positive test result with a Binax Now, CUE or PCR test:

• CCPH urges the public NOT to seek out confirmatory testing if a positive result is received. This unnecessarily wastes testing materials that are in limited supply. o If a positive test is received, please also follow the isolation guidance at: bit.ly/ChaffeeQuarantine.
• Likewise, if someone in a household tests positive and other household members who are close contacts are symptomatic, CCPH defines those household members as “probable positives” and therefore, a test is not recommended. However, if a probable positive needs official test results for travel, work, etc., they may seek out a PCR test. A rapid test is not recommended. A probable positive would follow isolation instructions.
• If you have a child who tests positive, please ensure that their school nurse is aware.

The federal government has launched its version of an at-home testing program. More information can be found at: https://www.covidtests.gov/. In addition, The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has an at-home testing program which can be found here: https://covid19.colorado.gov/covid-19-testing-at-home.

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Dan R

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television broadcasting for over 40 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma, and eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They've raised 3 children and have 2 grandchildren.

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