Covid-19 is still a common problem for many people, and it is still life-threatening for some patients, like seniors. Luckily, there is more information, testing, and vaccines regarding Covid-19 than when it started. If you would like to know more about Covid-19 and testing, keep reading.

What Are the Symptoms of Covid-19?

Covid-19 is caused by a coronavirus, which is responsible for respiratory illnesses like the common cold. For this reason, many of the symptoms are like that of the common cold. Many patients with Covid-19 experience fever, coughing, fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, and trouble breathing. Some patients may also develop pneumonia, which can lead to severe difficulty breathing and hospitalization.

For many patients, Covid-19 goes away on its own with rest and self-care. If you believe you have Covid-19, you should consider Covid-19 testing, but if you are showing extreme symptoms, like difficulty breathing, contact the doctor immediately.

What About Covid-19 Testing?

Luckily, now it's easy to get tested for Covid-19, and many of the tests offer rapid results. You can get tested at medical facilities, pharmacies, and many other pop-up locations. You can even order tests online or have someone buy you a test and test yourself at home. Depending on your needs and the tests offered, you may get a molecular test or an antigen test.

A molecular test looks for any of the virus' genetic material. An antigen test looks for specific proteins the virus produces. Both tests involve inserting a long cotton swab in your nostril to take a sample of the fluid.

Who Needs a Covid-19 Test?

Naturally, if you have symptoms of Covid-19 or have been exposed to someone with Covid-19, you should get tested, so you know if you need to quarantine or not. Keeping yourself away from others while you are infected is one of the best ways to stop the spread. If you do have to interact with anyone, make sure to wear a mask. Avoid traveling until you are sure you are no longer infected.

To stop the risk and spread of Covid-19, you may be required to take a Covid-19 test when you aren't showing any symptoms or you haven't been in contact with anyone with Covid-19. For example, before you go in for surgery or another procedure, you may need a test to ensure you are negative. If you test positive, the surgery or procedure will be postponed. You may also need a test if you are having a baby, traveling abroad, attending large events, etc.

It's incredibly easy to get tested for Covid-19, and rapid tests make getting results fast and easy. If you are showing any symptoms, you should get tested. If you would like to know more, contact a testing provider, such as Urgent Care Pros, in your area today.

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