COVID-19 cases have ebbed and flowed over the years, and while we enjoyed a relatively quiet spring and summer, cases are starting to rise again across the country and around eastern Tennessee.

While that shouldn’t cause you to panic, it is time to refresh your memory about COVID-19 and the different symptoms to watch for.

Our AFC Urgent Care Sevierville team explains all about COVID-19 below so you can start preparing for the fall and winter seasons ahead.

Is COVID-19 Still Really Contagious?

Each variant comes with minor changes in terms of symptoms and illness duration, but they are all really contagious no matter what variant you have. That is why frequent testing is so important! The faster you know what you have, the faster you can remove yourself from work or school to stop the spread.

Self-isolating is still important because even if you already had COVID-19 and were fine, older adults and immunocompromised people are still at a higher risk for a severe or even deadly infection. Taking care of our community takes work from all of us. Come see us right away for a rapid test as soon as you start feeling sick.

Possible COVID-19 Symptoms

• Sudden fever
• Chills
• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or muscle aches

Can I Still Get a COVID-19 Vaccine?

Yes! As of mid-September, the recommendation is for everyone to get a dose of the newly reformulated vaccine, regardless of whether you have received previous doses or not. The protection the vaccine can provide can give you peace of mind as we head into the colder months.

It is important to remember, however, that it is still possible to experience a breakthrough COVID-19 case, even if you have been vaccinated and boosted. The good news is is that the majority of people who experience a breakthrough infection only experience minimal symptoms. You should always keep an eye on how you feel and certainly seek medical attention right away if you start to experience any of the below symptoms.

COVID-19 Symptoms That Indicate an Emergency

• Respiratory distress
• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Confusion
• Pale, gray- or blue-colored skin and lips

Feeling ill? Stop by for a COVID-19 rapid test at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville.