We’re all aware that COVID-19 (Omicron B.1.1.529…the latest variant) has not only impacted us, but the whole world. It’s appropriate to say that we know more about COVID-19 than we did before. That being said, not every symptom we feel is because of COVID-19.
There are other winter illnesses out there that have symptoms of sore throats that we can’t forget about. Take strep throat for instance. It’s a sore throat you don’t want to get this winter! AFC Urgent Care Torrington has prepared a guideline to educate you in the difference between COVID-19 and Strep throat.
What Causes COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2 and was discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. It is very contagious and has quickly spread around the world.COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, a flu, or pneumonia.
Did You Know That Strep Throat Is Not A Viral Infection?
Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep).Group A strep bacteria are very contagious COVID-19 is part of our lives, but so is Strep throat and many other illnesses. Strep throat can be minor, but it can be very painful as well. Generally, people spread the bacteria to others through:
- Respiratory droplets
- Direct contact
Rarely, people can spread group A strep bacteria through food that is not handled properly. It usually takes two to five days for someone exposed to group A strep bacteria to become ill with strep throat.
Strep Throat Versus COVID-19 Symptoms
Strep throat is often viewed as a mild infection, but it can be very painful. The most common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Sore throat that can start very quickly
- Pain when swallowing
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
Other symptoms may include a headache, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting — especially in children.
Symptoms typically NOT seen in Strep throat are:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Pink eye
COVID-19 Symptoms May Affect Your Respiratory System
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms.
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Nausea
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
COVID-19 may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease.Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
Please keep in mind that symptoms may change depending on the newest variant. As of the 2023 new year, the newest variant is Omicron B.1.1.529.
For this reason, it is important to stay up to date with the most recent COVID-19 vaccines. Most people who have had all of the available vaccines will experience mild symptoms, but some people, mostly those who have not been vaccinated, the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, can become severely ill. Although we don’t carry the COVID-19 vaccines, you can easily get one at your local pharmacy, such as Rite Aid, CVS, etc.
What Type Of Test Is Used To Determine Strep Throat?
Getting tested is the first step to finding out the cause of your sore throat. The most common test used is a rapid throat swab test for strep. It’s quick and painless. It may be a little uncomfortable due to the swab, but it’s painless. If you test positive for strep, we can prescribe you with antibiotics to start treatment on the same day.
“It’s better to be safe than sorry” is an appropriate saying because wouldn’t you want to be safe and get tested for both COVID-19 and strep throat to rule out some of the winter illnesses this season.
AFC Urgent Care New Bedford Offers Strep And COVID-19 Tests
If you suspect your sore throat is from strep, AFC Urgent Care in New Bedford can perform a rapid throat swab test to determine if you are positive or not. While you’re here, we also offer a COVID Antigen test, rapid molecular test for COVID-19 and can give you results on the same day for any of these.
Strep throat usually clears up if you take your FULL prescription. We highly suggest completing it because if you stop too soon, the bacteria causing strep could grow back and be more resistant to the current dose of antibiotics. It’s best to finish your medication to avoid strep from coming back.
We are open 7 days a week on a walk-in basis. No appointment needed!
