Progress with COVID-19 has come a long, long way. It’s crazy to think that only just a year and a half ago, none of us even knew this virus existed. Now, scientists and medical experts alike have developed vaccines that provide immunity for months and tests that provide accurate results in just 15 minutes.
While this progress is encouraging, the CDC is finding that there is a rise in respiratory illnesses as masks are coming off and businesses are opening up again. Our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne team provides further information on that topic below, so read on!
What Should I Know About Recent Rise of Respiratory Illness?
According to the CDC, they are seeing “increased Interseasonal Respiratory Syncytial Virus [RSV] activity in parts of the Southern United States.”
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. In fact, it’s so common that most children have been infected with the virus by age 2. Respiratory syncytial virus can also infect adults, and its symptoms are mild and typically mimic the common cold; however, symptoms can be much more severe among infants and young children. We’ve listed the most common RSV symptoms below.
Common RSV Symptoms
- Congested or runny nose
- Dry cough
- Low-grade fever
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Headache
Should I Get a Rapid Test?
Because respiratory illnesses like RSV are on the rise in the south, it’s important to get a strep, flu or COVID-19 test if you begin to experience symptoms of any of these illnesses.
Our rapid test kits provide accurate results in 15 minutes or less, and you don’t even need an appointment to get tested! Remember to exercise the health-safety precautions that we’ve listed below before getting tested if you believe you’re sick.
Health-Safety Precautions
- Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.
- Cover your mouth with a tissue or elbow when you sneeze or cough.
Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne location today to get your rapid flu, strep or COVID-19 test! We’re here for you now and always.
