We hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving because before you know it, we’ll be in 2022. December is going to go by quickly and a lot of us are exhausted from the rollercoaster ride of 2021.

2021 was filled with good moments and bad ones. New testing options for COVID-19 and finally a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus were all plusses. But, we also had some bad moments: a resurgence in COVID-19 cases from new variants. With the holidays here, AFC Urgent Care Danbury wants you to be safe and COVID-19 free with a guide on travel, and important guidance on gatherings.

Colds, Flu, COVID-19, oh my!

There are still people who are not FULLY vaccinated for COVID-19. At the same time, kids ages 5 and up have recently become eligible to be vaccinated. They still need time to become FULLY vaccinated before the holidays. On top of all of this, the winter season is notorious for colds, the flu, norovirus, and even hand foot, and mouth disease.

Please don’t freak out! We know that symptoms often overlap with some of these illnesses, especially colds, flu, and COVID-19, so here is a chart to break down the differences:

At this time we are also seeing patients with hand, foot, and mouth disease. It is contagious, but it’s not COVID-19. If you have symptoms of rash on your hands and feet or sores in your mouth, most likely that is not COVID-19. You can come to see us at AFC Urgent Care at 76c Newtown Road to be evaluated and treated.

Travel Guidance For The Christmas Holiday

All airports require you to wear a mask to board a plane. If you really think about it, you're on a plane with dozens of other people for X amount of hours. Please take precautions regardless if you are vaccinated or not.

Speaking of vaccinations for COVID-19, at this time, it is not required for traveling domestically in the U.S. However, you should check your destination as a negative PCR test is required at least 1-3 days before traveling. The CDC also recommends getting tested when you return. If you are vaccinated, you’re good to fly locally in the U.S without any delays. 

As for international flights, traveling is restricted in many countries and getting more restrictive, now with the newest omicron COVID-19 variant beginning to emerge.The CDC recommends getting vaccinated as most countries are still red zoned for high cases of COVID-19. Being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will be your safest bet to avoid the virus as well as avoid any delay in your travel plans. If you’re not vaccinated, follow these rules by The CDC. 

AFC Urgent Care Danbury wishes everyone a COVID-19 free Christmas

AFC Urgent Care Danbury on 100 Mill Plain Road is here for you during the Christmas season. We are open 7 days a week and there is no appointment when visiting us for your urgent care needs. If you need a Rapid COVID-19 test before you travel or go to a family gathering, you can come to see us any day of the week.

***Due to the holiday season, wait times may be longer for COVID-19 testing. Make sure to plan ahead.

We also offer flu shots, X-ray services, treatment for UTIs, colds, cuts, lacerations, and a whole lot more at the fraction of the cost and time it would be at the ER.