We all want to avoid sickness and stay as healthy as possible during the fall and winter months. With all of the circulating viruses and bacterial infections that are around, it can sometimes be hard to do!

Now that COVID-19 is part of the mix again, it is important to remember that you can get sick with COVID-19 this year even if you had already had it in previous years. Taking preventive steps is crucial to maintaining your health.

Our AFC Urgent Care Tyvola Road team explains more about COVID-19 and how to avoid getting sick this year below, so check it out and stay healthy out there.

Why Is COVID-19 Testing Still Important?

We all want to know what we are sick with when we come down with an infection or other illness. A proper diagnosis can help you find more reliable treatments and can help you avoid getting vulnerable people sick. This is especially true with COVID-19!

Getting tested as soon as you start having symptoms can help make sure you remove yourself from work or school right away, and it can also make sure you receive treatment faster. There are antiviral drug treatments available now either in pill form or through an IV, and they can help you feel better faster. However, they should be given at the onset of your symptoms so they can work more efficiently.

Symptoms of COVID-19

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

How Can I Prevent COVID-19 This Year?

The vaccine remains one of the most reliable ways to avoid COVID-19. However, we all know that breakthrough cases do still happen, even if you are fully vaccinated. The good news is is that even if you do get sick, the chances of you experiencing severe symptoms is drastically lower.

Even if you received the initial round of the vaccine, be sure to stay current with recommended boosters. The latest boosters will be available beginning in late September or October. You can also lower your risk of illness by washing your hands frequently, steering clear of people who are sick and avoiding crowded spaces.

Serious COVID-19 Symptoms to Watch For

• 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 Tyvola Road.