SPOKANE, Wash. — The four Whitworth University community members being tested for coronavirus have tested negative.
According to a tweet from the university on Monday, the four members tested negative.
As of Monday, there have been 769 positive tests and 9,451 negative tests for coronavirus in Washington state. Three of those positive tests were in Spokane County.
So far in Washington, 42 people have died.
Whitworth University announced on their website last Wednesday that four of its community members were being tested for COVID-19, better known as coronavirus.
It was previously announced that two people in Spokane County are under investigation for COVID-19, according to the Spokane Regional Health District.
People who were potentially in contact with the two individuals were notified by the health district.
According to health district officials, they will not have regular updates on the results or number of people under investigation going forward due to changes in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for coronavirus testing.
“With the loosening of CDC restrictions on COVID-19 testing, providers are now able to use their own judgement to request testing for people who have symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, and we will no longer be informed of every case under investigation,” said Dr. Bob Lutz, Spokane County Health Officer at SRHD.
Lutz said SRHD will be notified of all positive results for Spokane County. Those results will be reported daily on the health district's website, Lutz said.
Washington state deaths
At least 42 people have died and another 769 others have tested positive in Washington state.
Researchers seek 45 participants for clinical trials of a new coronavirus vaccine. The first phase of the trial will examine how immune systems respond to the vaccine.
Gonzaga community member tests negative
According to the Spokane Regional Health District, a Gonzaga community member was in self-isolation pending the results of the test, which was negative.
It is unclear if the person is a student or staff member.
The Gonzaga Emergency Management Team (EMT) is partnering with public health agencies to develop a plan for mitigation, response and recovery efforts for campus. The EMT is also updating a website with the university’s latest information about prevention as response actions.
What to do if you have symptoms
Health officials recommend calling your doctor or healthcare provider before going in if you are showing symptoms of coronavirus.
Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
It isn't recommended to go to a clinic or hospital without calling first if you think you have coronavirus or are showing symptoms.