There have been some changes in the availability of tests for COVID-19, and the priority on who is able to be tested. If you speculate that you may be infected with the SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19, you can use the following information to determine if you should be tested. 

These recommendations are based on guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and state and local health departments.  Did you know that the CDC has a Self- Checker tool that allows individuals to use to help them determine if they should get tested for COVID-19? If you are unsure if you need a test, take advantage of this option. 

Symptoms of COVID-19

Have you been feeling extremely ill? You should get tested and seek treatment for COVID-19 immediately if you are experiencing the following alarming signs:

•  Difficulty breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Lips or face have bluish tint
• Loss of speech or movement

You should also consult a medical provider if you are experiencing other symptoms that are severe or concerning. 

Even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms, you may be wondering if you should still be tested for COVID-19. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to help decide if you need a test for COVID-19. 

Have you been exposed to the coronavirus?

Exposure to the coronavirus comes from having close contact with an infected individual. Close contact includes living with someone who is sick with COVID-19, caring for a person with COVID-19, being within six feet of a sick person for ten minutes or more, being in direct contact with a sick person via kissing, sharing utensils, or being coughed on. It is also considered contact if you or someone you are in contact with has recently traveled to a coronavirus hotspot. 

Do you have symptoms of coronavirus?

If you have been in close contact with someone who has been infected with the coronavirus, be sure to be cautious of symptoms of COVID-19. Symptoms will typically appear between five and six days after an individual has been infected. However, it can take up to two weeks after infection for symptoms to emerge. 

The most common COVID-19 symptoms include fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Although they are less common, you should also be perceptive to aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of smell or taste, skin rash or a discoloration of fingers or toes. 

Rule out other illnesses

Several of the symptoms for COVID-19 are also characteristic of other respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold and the flu. Before you decide to get tested for COVID-19, attempt to rule out the other illnesses that have similar symptoms. Treat them as you would normally with plenty of fluids, rest, and over the counter medications. 

COVID-19 Diagnostic & Antibody Testing in Braintree, MA

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms or you know you have been in close contact with someone who has been infected with the virus, you should schedule an appointment for COVID-19 antibody and diagnostic swab testing at AFC Urgent Care Braintree. Diagnostic testing is only offered after a telemedicine screening. To learn more about testing, please call 781-848-2273.