JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – While more widespread testing becomes available for COVID-19, hospitals in Stutsman County are still testing on a symptomatic basis.

Because of supplies, there is a limited number of tests that can be done at this time. Jamestown Regional Medical Center President and CEO Mike Delfs says there’s reason for this.

Part of Governor Doug Burgum’s “North Dakota Smart Restart” is the availability of widespread testing. Delfs says they support him, but they need more supplies.

Manufacturing continues to increase to allow for widespread testing nationwide. Delfs estimates that there are about 300 tests for a population of 20,000 people.

Dr. Sarah Schatz with Sanford Health says they are also doing the symptomatic tests only at this time.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and body aches. Dr. Schatz says some other symptoms may vary per each person. She says another reason they don’t test everyone is the possibility of a “negative” test.

Dr. Schatz says this still shouldn’t prevent someone from seeking medical help if they are sick.

As of Sunday, April 26th, there have been four positive cases of COVID-19 in Stutsman County total. 20,477 total tests have been conducted and 867 cases have been positive in North Dakota. There have been 17 deaths associated with COVID-19.

You can watch the latest Jamestown & Stutsman County briefing below: