And yet another year with COVID-19, but this time with new testing options and COVID-19 vaccines to help reduce the spread and lift some restrictions in the U.S in time for the holidays. Thank goodness. During this time of year, we often get together with family and friends while spreading the joy of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year. But, with COVID-19 still present,  we still need to be cautious of the Delta variant, people who are not vaccinated, as well as confusion with other highly contagious viruses. 

Just so you know, kids ages 5-11 are now eligible to get vaccinated and the same goes for everyone ages 11 and up. Do we still need to wear masks and follow restrictions? Yes. Why? Because there are still unvaccinated people out there that even us vaccinated folk can be carriers and spread it to. This means the SAME guidelines still apply when meeting family at gatherings. We know it’s hard, and we are right here with you. All of us have families and want to spend the holidays together. 

So…..AFC Urgent Care Torrington is here to help you navigate through the winter holidays with important information, guidance, and travel info.

COVID-19 Travel Safety Checklist For The Holidays

Traveling is still restricted in most places around the world, and getting more restrictive, now with the newest omicron COVID-19 variant beginning to emerge. At this time, domestic flights don’t require vaccination, but you do need a COVID-19 test 1-3 days before you travel if you’re not vaccinated. The CDC also recommends for unvaccinated individuals to get tested when they return. 

Hawaii continues to have restrictions to enter its state unless you get a COVID-19 test from a trusted provider. Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care in Torrington is a trusted provider with the state of Hawaii and can help you with COVID-19 testing for entry. 

Although cases in the U.S have decreased over the past few months, travel restrictions for international countries are more restricted than domestic traveling. This means that a COVID-19 vaccine will be your safest bet when traveling internationally. Remember, there are still other variants out there in other countries.

The best thing to do is check the state or country you wish to travel to this winter to avoid any delays and of course avoid COVID-19. You can check with The CDC as they continue to update information on travel safety during COVID-19.

Understanding the differences between colds, flu, COVID-19, and hand, foot, and mouth disease

Earlier we mentioned that we are starting to see people come in with hand, foot, and mouth disease. It is contagious, but it’s not COVID-19.

Symptoms for hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) are:

• Mouth sores

• Rash on hands and feet

• Fever

If you’re worried about differentiating between the flu, colds or COVID-19 here’s an easy table for reference:

AFC Urgent Care Torrington can help test you for COVID-19 this Christmas

The risk for COVID-19 is not knowing if you have it or not. AFC Urgent Care Torrington is aware of the recent restrictions in CT and hopes that you take this time to prepare for the winter holidays. We offer both Rapid and PCR testing options 7 days a week with no appointment needed. 

***We cannot predict the demands of COVID-19 testing for the holidays, so please plan in advance before you travel, go to a family gathering, etc.

And, in case you need us for other urgent care services, you can always walk in for X-rays, flu shots, sprains, wounds, foodborne illnesses, and other urgent care needs at any time. With extended hours from 8 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday and weekend hours from 8 am to 5 pm, we make it convenient for our families and friends in the Torrington community to seek quality treatment from a brand they can trust.