Florida Department of Health releases new guidelines for COVID-19 testing

Central Florida Public Media | By Danielle Prieur

Published January 7, 2022 at 3:35 PM EST

The number of Floridians testing positive for the coronavirus is climbing again.

The Florida Department of Health has released new COVID-19 testing guidelines aimed at reducing the demand for testing in the state.

Today, the Florida Department of Health issued updated testing guidance and recommendations to maximize the benefits of COVID-19 testing in Florida.

A copy of the full COVID-19 testing guidance can be found at https://t.co/mqhghG6HUf.

— Florida Dept. of Health (@HealthyFla) January 6, 2022

Only residents with symptoms of the virus who are considered high-risk should get tested according to the new recommendations.

That includes anyone who is 65 and older, has a medical condition like cancer, diabetes or chronic heart and lung problems, and/or who is pregnant or recently gave birth.

All other individuals, even those who have come in contact with an infected person, are being encouraged to wait to get tested until symptoms appear.

This new guidance which has been supported both by Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo directly contradicts the CDC’s suggestions for testing.

The CDC says anyone who has symptoms, has had contact with a symptomatic person, or who is not fully vaccinated and works or goes to school in high-risk environments should get a test.

Florida is currently experiencing a surge in new COVID cases due to the latest Omicron variant. A report out of the University of Florida predicts 80 percent of residents could become infected with the virus by the end of the wave.