State of Alaska can now test for novel coronavirus

ANCHORAGE (KTUU) - The State of Alaska is now able to test for the novel coronavirus at its public health laboratories.

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The test kits come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to a World Health Organization report, there are 83,652 confirmed cases globally.

Alaska health officials report there are none in Alaska.

The Department of Health and Social Services says if a hospital or a health care provider suspects that a patient has the novel coronavirus, they should contact the Section of Epidemiology within DHSS.

According to a release from DHSS, under most circumstances, initial test results should be available within 4-6 hours of specimen arrival at the laboratory.

Thursday Channel 2's Maria Downey spoke with Dr. Anne Zink, the state's Chief Medical Officer about what can you do to prepare and protect your family.

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