Tyler Community COVID-19 Testing Results
A community COVID-19 testing event was conducted in Tyler, Minn. July 15 in response to a rise in cases in Lincoln County. The one-day event brought 409 people to the test site. An additional 640 people were tested at Avera Marshall from July 8 to July 17. Collectively, there were 93 positive cases identified at the two sites over the 10-day period with an 8.8% positive rate. Of the individuals who participated in the Tyler event, 16 tested positive. The remaining 77 positive cases came through the Avera Marshall collection site.
“We saw a sharp rise in testing at the Avera Marshall collection site during this timeframe with a number of people coming from the Lincoln County area,” said Mary Maertens, Avera Marshall Regional President and CEO. “Holding an event in Tyler offered a convenient option for Lincoln County residents who were otherwise driving the 25 miles to Marshall for testing.”
Of the 16 positive results from the Avera Tyler event, seven were among individuals ages 11-17. Nine were among people 22-50. Six of those who tested positive reported having no symptoms of the virus.
“With an overall 8.8% positivity rate, the expanded availability of testing during this time was absolutely warranted. We are grateful to individuals who participated in testing. By identifying people with the virus and asking them to isolate, we can help slow the spread,” said Steve Meister, Chief Medical Officer, Avera Marshall.
“Individuals whose tests came back positive have been notified. They have been asked to isolate themselves from others and they’ve been asked to alert people they have been in contact with, including their employer,” said Dr. Steve Meister, Chief Medical Officer, Avera Marshall.
“We are grateful to all of the community partners and volunteers who stepped up to play a role in carrying out a testing event like this so quickly. All of the organizations and individuals involved came together to develop a well-organized, safe and efficient process for the good of our region,” Maertens said.
Testing continues to be offered in Marshall. Those who are interested should call 1-877-AT-AVERA.
In the meantime, officials urge area residents to continue following safety measures to control the spread of COVID-19.
“To protect our community, especially vulnerable populations who could be seriously impacted by the virus, it’s important for all of us to continue following basic virus control practices. Stay home if you can, social distance, wear a mask while out in public, wash your hands, get tested and stay home if you feel sick,” Meister said.
Avera has developed a tool kit that provides guidance on how people can protect themselves from COVID-19. It is available online at www.avera.org/app/files/public/77340/New-Normal-Patient-Toolkit.pdf.