UAB Urgent Message: Do Not Use ER To Get COVID-19 Test

BIRMINGHAM, AL — With a massive uptick in new COVID-19 cases in Alabama and the fear of straining healthcare staff, the University of Alabama at Birmingham has issued a statement urging people not to use the emergency room to get tested for the virus.

"Emergency departments are experiencing record numbers of patients presenting with COVID which is resulting in significantly longer wait times for all patients, including those with emergency needs," UAB officials said in a statement. "If you are experiencing non-life-threatening COVID symptoms, including sore throat and stuffy nose, please stay home. Consider contacting your primary care doctor or an urgent care clinic if you need medical care for cold symptoms or non-life-threatening COVID symptoms."

Related: COVID-19 Cases Rise Again In Alabama, New Daily Record Set

Alabama reported its highest 7-day case average ever Monday, and Dr. Sarah Nafziger of UAB said while hospitalizations have remained lower than this time last year, the strain on staff is still a reality.

"The thing that is different for us with this surge is the omicron strain is really putting a strain on our staffing," UAB's said. "We are having a lot of staff who are testing positive. We have a lot of patients who are being admitted for other things, who also happen to have COVID and have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all."