Washington health officials report testing backlog

The Washington State Department of Health is warning residents not to get tested for COVID-19 unless they are sure they are showing symptoms.

“Demand for COVID-19 testing has increased across the state of Washington as disease transmission continues to rise,” the department’s statement reads. “To ensure testing access for Washingtonians with COVID-like symptoms or those who have had close contacts, we are asking the general public to not seek screening tests to attend Thanksgiving celebrations.”