Over 100 COVID-19 tests conducted at Kamiah Nimiipuu Health

KAMIAH - COVID-19 testing was conducted at Kamiah Nimiipuu Health (NMPH) on Saturday, July 4 with 101 tests done.

At this time one test returned positive and 86 are still pending. The remaining test results are expected in approximately 8-10 days.

The delay in processing of the pending tests is due to the increase of COVID-19 testing in the region. Additionally, NMPH is still awaiting the test results from the testing that occurred on June 29. Due to the holiday, those test results were also delayed. Upon receipt of the pending test results, NMPH staff will be notifying each patient of their test result as quickly as possible. Education will be provided on next steps, as necessary, for each patient.

Two types of testing were available. For symptomatic patients, they used the ID NOW test, which allows for same day results. For asymptomatic patients, nasopharyngeal swabs were used and sent out to Quest laboratories for processing.

The testing at NMPH was conducted following the rise in COVID-19 cases in the region. Based upon information that there was an exposure in Kamiah, it was deemed necessary to provide mass testing access onsite.

(Photo courtesy of the Nimiipuu Health)

"Our number one concern is public safety. The sooner we can gather information on the severity of the situation, the better we can address the issues," stated NMPH Medical Director, R. Kim Hartwig.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, NMPH Medical staff continue to work diligently to keep up on the most current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"As we continue to learn about this novel virus we have to adjust our protocols and recommendations accordingly. Though much is still not known, we know more than we did back in January," stated Dr. Hartwig. "A majority of our education is referenced from the CDC guidelines. While we recognize it can be challenging for the general public to stay informed of all the changes; as service providers, we take on the responsibility of being aware so we can strive to inform our patients the best we can."

With the rise in positive COVID-19 cases, it is strongly encouraged for everyone to continue practicing the recommended safety protocols. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. This can be accomplished by practicing social distancing, wearing a mask while out in public, washing/sanitizing hands often, and monitoring health daily. Those who feel sick, please stay home and call a medical provider.

Those who test positive for COVID-19, must self-isolate. Self-isolation can discontinue when they have gone at least 3 days with no fever and respiratory symptoms have improved and it has been 10 days since symptoms first appeared. As a reminder, any person that tests positive for COVID-19 is required to follow the self-isolation guidelines prescribed by the medical provider. The Nez Perce Tribal Police Department has the authority to ensure COVID-19 positive individuals are abiding the self-isolation guidelines.