As we continue through the summer months, a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, commonly referred to as the "summer wave," is capturing global attention. This seasonal spike in infections brings with it unique challenges and considerations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there’s a COVID-19 summer wave in the U.S. It’s important to understand the threats associated with contracting the virus and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention for testing and treatment.
For same-day COVID-19 testing, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction. Our medical team can test patients for a wide range of viruses on a walk-in basis via our on-site lab. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below!
Understanding the Threat of COVID-19 Illness
The seriousness of COVID-19 illness can vary widely depending on a number of factors:
1. The severity of symptoms: COVID-19 can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe. Some people experience mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, while others develop severe illnesses that can lead to hospitalization, long-term complications, or death.
2. Risk groups: Certain populations are at higher risk for severe illness, including older adults. This also includes people with underlying medical conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and obesity) and those with weakened immune systems.
3. Long-term effects: Some individuals, regardless of the initial severity of their symptoms, may experience long-term effects known as "long COVID." This can include fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and other persistent symptoms.
4. Vaccination: Vaccines have been shown to reduce the severity of illness, decrease the risk of hospitalization and death, and mitigate the spread of the virus. Vaccinated individuals who contract COVID-19 generally experience milder symptoms compared to those who are unvaccinated.
5. Variants: New variants of the virus, such as Delta and Omicron, have had different impacts on transmissibility and severity. Some variants have led to increased case numbers and healthcare strain, while others have shown changes in disease severity.
6. Healthcare capacity: The ability of healthcare systems to manage and treat severe cases also impacts the overall seriousness of the illness. Overwhelmed healthcare systems can lead to worse outcomes for patients.
What To Do About The COVID-19 Summer Wave
Managing a summer wave of COVID-19 involves several proactive measures to protect yourself and your community:
- Ensure that you are up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
- In areas with high transmission rates or crowded indoor settings, wearing a mask can help reduce the spread of the virus.
- Regularly handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching your face can help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Keep up with local public health guidelines and COVID-19 case numbers in your area. Follow recommendations from health authorities such as the CDC or WHO.
- If you experience symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested promptly. Testing helps identify cases early and reduces the spread of the virus.
Certain signs could indicate a severe COVID-19 infection or other serious health conditions that require immediate medical attention. These include difficulty breathing, persistent chest pun, confusion, inability to stay awake, and bluish lips or face. Timely intervention can be lifesaving and help prevent further complications.
Get Walk-In Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction
If you are experiencing symptoms aligned with COVID-19, or any other signs of illness, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction for testing. We can provide diagnostic testing for the active COVID-19 virus as well as antibodies from previous coronavirus infection. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and provides the most quality, affordable, and convenient care for all patients in the Grand Junction, CO area and surrounding communities. We accept most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and offer cost-effective care for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about COVID-19 symptoms and treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (970) 609-2001.
