State officials announced several changes to Oklahoma’s coronavirus data policies on Friday morning. The state is updating which data it will report, how it will collect that data, and how it will be displayed.
Health officials have always tracked results from the tests known as antigen or rapid tests. But those tests were considered less reliable than the standard PCR tests or the nose swab. Positive antigen tests have not been included in total cases. Officials said Friday those tests have improved, and daily cases will include antigen positives starting next week.
Officials are also partnering with google to modernize how they collect data from health providers. Under the current system, the state was getting reports through several channels, including fax updates and call ins.
Lastly, the data dashboard available to the public on the state’s coronavirus website will get a redesign, which also launches Tuesday.
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