Test results slowed down as more testing becomes available in Minnesota

[KSTP TV, August 12, 2020] It's been more than five months since Minnesota's first case of COVID-19. Since then, health officials have confirmed more than 62,000 cases and more than 1.1 million tests have been given statewide.

While testing was a struggle in the beginning, over the last week, on average, more than 13,000 tests are given each day.

While that number is growing in at least some clinics, so has the time it takes to get results.

"There is a delay due to the sheer volume of testing," said Heather Dawson, Allina Heath Laboratory Services vice president. "And we watch supplies very carefully. I would say on a national level, everyone is watching carefully and is concerned as we roll into 'respiratory season,' or the 'flu season.' A lot of the supplies overlap."