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Reducing Your Risks of COVID-19 Exposure
Your risk of catching COVID-19 or any other viral infection increases in crowded cities or communities, increasing the risk of spreading the disease to your loved ones. As cases surge across the U.S, it’s important for Texans to keep up with preventative measures to reduce their chances of contracting COVID-19.
Healthy Habits to Protect the Entire Family
When possible, it's best to keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others when out in public. Also, follow your county's guidelines for school closures, travel alerts, and public ordinances. There are several other ways you can keep your family healthy, safe, and stop the spread of the COVID-19 and any other virus, including:
- Avoiding touching your face, especially your mouth and eyes.
- Wearing a face covering over your mouth and nose.
- Washing your hands frequently with hot water and soap.
- Covering your sneezes and coughs when out in public.
- Cleaning high-touch surfaces frequently, such as counters, doorknobs, and faucets.
- Receive your COVID-19 vaccination when available in your area.
Distinguishing COVID-19 From the Seasonal Flu
Flu season lasts from November through March in the U.S., with cases typically peaking around February. As COVID-19 cases continue to spike here in Texas at the same time, it’s essential to recognize the differences between these illnesses and seek treatment and testing if you feel sick.
Symptoms of COVID-19
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Patients who contract COVID-19 either experience a range of moderate to severe symptoms or may appear to be asymptomatic (no signs of symptoms).
The most common signs of COVID-19 are similar to the flu and include:
- Sore throat
- Chills
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle aches
Emergent Symptoms of COVID-19
Most of the symptoms of COVID-19 are best treated at home with plenty of fluids and rest. However, the following are signs you should seek emergency treatment as soon as possible:
- Constant pain or pressure in your chest.
- Trouble breathing.
- Blue-ish lips or face.
- New loss of taste or smell.
Patients considered high-risk are advised to remain at home and to avoid public hotspots. If you believe you are sick, don’t delay in getting tested and seeking treatment.
Symptoms of the Seasonal Flu
Influenza (the seasonal flu) is also a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that can be mild to severe. Similarly to COVID-19, symptoms of the flu can vary in their severity, but some of the most common signs of the seasonal flu include:
- Sore throat
- Chills
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Fever
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle or body aches
- Vomiting
COVID-19 Testing Options atUrgentology Care
If you do feel sick, our staff has testing options available every day of the week. Learn more about the COVID-19 tests we offer:
Rapid Antigen Tests
For quick testing, the rapid antigen test is appropriate for those thought to be actively infected with COVID-19. This test is administered via a nasal or nose and throat (nasopharyngeal) swab, and tests come back within 15 minutes.
Molecular PCR Tests
The PCR test is considered the ‘gold standard’ of COVID-19 testing, as it’s the most accurate way to tell if a patient currently has the coronavirus. This test is administered via a nasopharyngeal swab, and results take 3-5+ days.
Antibody Tests
Our COVID-19 antibody test can tell if someone recently tested positive for COVID-19 exposure but is not currently sick. If a patient was exposed, they will have coronavirus antibodies in their blood. To administer this test, we take a sample of blood. Results typically come back in 1-2 days.
Employer COVID-19 Testing at Urgentology Care
Healthcare workers, first responders, food service workers, and local businesses have all supported our community through the COVID-19 pandemic without the option to work from home. Now that more workforce members are being recalled, employers need to offer their staff access to easy testing options to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Urgentology Care is pleased to announce our employer COVID-19 testing program. Read on to learn how to provide you and your entire team some peace of mind:
Onsite and Clinic Testing
To make testing easier for you and your employees, we offer onsite and in-clinic testing options. Our corporate COVID-19 testing is administered via contract, and upon signing up, we will discuss whether you want your employees to come into our clinic for testing or if you want us to come to you.
While onsite testing reduces downtime, we’re happy to set up appointments at our clinic for your employees as well.
COVID-19 and Flu Treatment in Urgentology Care
In light of COVID-19 and the flu season occurring at once, taking all necessary precautions can help protect your family — including getting vaccinated. If you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or are feeling ill, make an appointment at our clinic for testing and proper treatment.