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How Soon Do COVID-19 Symptoms Appear?

October 12, 2024

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Experiencing COVID-19 symptoms? AFC South Asheville offers testing and treatment to keep you safe. Visit urgent care near you for fast, reliable care today.

Whether you’re hiking in Pisgah National Forest or enjoying a day at Lake Julian Park, the onset of COVID-19 symptoms can catch you off guard. If you start feeling fatigued or develop a cough while exploring the outdoors, it’s important to get checked quickly.

Visit AFC South Asheville today.

When Do Symptoms Start?

The CDC says symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure, with most people showing signs around day 5 or 6. This is known as the incubation period. However, this timing can vary based on factors like the virus strain and whether you’ve been vaccinated.

Common COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they often creep in slowly before worsening in some cases. The list of symptoms can change over time as new variants emerge, but here are some of the most common ones reported by the CDC:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Remember, symptoms can vary depending on the variant and your vaccination status.

COVID-19 in 2024

Even as we enter 2024, COVID-19 remains a concern. With new variants popping up, it’s important to stay mindful of symptoms, especially if you’ve been exposed. Keeping an eye on how you’re feeling—whether you’re vaccinated or not—can make a big difference in stopping the spread.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have COVID?

If you start feeling even mild symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with others. Sometimes symptoms start out small but can become serious, especially for those with underlying health conditions. If you’re at higher risk for severe illness, it’s crucial to get tested and seek early treatment to prevent complications.

When Should I Get Help?

Certain symptoms mean you should get medical attention right away. Seek help immediately if you or someone else experiences:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent chest pain or pressure
  • New confusion
  • Difficulty staying awake
  • Pale, gray, or blue skin, lips, or nails (depending on skin tone)

Is it COVID-19 or the Flu?

COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses, but they come from different viruses. Since their symptoms can be similar, it’s hard to tell them apart without testing. That’s where we come in! We offer rapid tests that can distinguish between COVID-19 and the flu, so you’ll know exactly what’s going on. Also, don’t forget to get your flu shot! Winter is coming, and staying ahead of the flu season is just as important.

Visit AFC South Asheville Today!

Knowing when COVID-19 symptoms appear can help you act quickly to protect yourself and others. If you’re feeling sick, it’s better to be safe and get tested. If symptoms worsen, don’t wait to seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care South Asheville, we’re here to help. We offer COVID-19 testing, treatment, and flu shots to keep you and your family safe this season. With COVID-19 cases still affecting our community, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and proactive about your health. Visit us if you need testing or have concerns!

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