When the coronavirus disease initially hit the United States, the response was slow and before long it became deadly. Nearly a year later, there is still not a handle on it but has the disease become more or less dangerous over the past year? It has been reported that the COVID-19 symptoms were similar to the flu. This seemed to quell the general public as we have all faced the flu without much consequence in the past. In reality, though, COVID-19 is found to be ten times more deadly than the flu. 

Not only that but COVID-19 is highly contagious. It has also been found that no one is immune to the virus since it has never been seen in humans. What makes it even more deadly is that it infects the upper respiratory system. The only saving grace we have is that there is now a vaccine available. Unfortunately, vaccine rollout has been slow and it will be some time before everyone has access to it. 

COVID-19 Symptoms

This leads us to our next concern, what do COVID-19 symptoms look like? The answer can be a complex one. 

Each person will have a different reaction to the virus which leaves us with a plethora of symptoms. However, 80 percent of people will only experience mild cases that have less severe symptoms. These COVID-19 symptoms can include:

• fever
• nausea
• headache
• vomiting
• chills
• shortness of breath
• loss of taste
• loss of smell

You may experience some, none, or all of these symptoms if you are infected with the virus. Some people will have the virus and be completely asymptomatic, while others will die from the illness. Being asymptomatic means that you have COVID-19 but do not have any visible symptoms. Mild cases will have many of the above symptoms. If a case worsens, the COVID-19 symptoms will be exacerbated and can lead to some of these:

• dry cough
• loss of appetite
• body aches
• fatigue
• high fever
• shortness of breath
• Pneumonia

If you begin to see your symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can lead to an even more long-term and even deadly outcome. Most cases will go away on their own within the two week period that one should be staying home and resting. Cases that last over a week may require further treatment. 

What to do if You Have COVID-19?

If you have a positive COVID-19 test the first thing to do is to quarantine for two weeks. Stay as alone as possible within your home. If you must be around other household members, wear a mask and stay six feet apart. 

Practice good hygiene and clean surfaces often. If possible use a different bathroom than other household members until you get a negative COVID-19 test. Do not use public transportation and limit your exposure to the public. Stock up on essentials like groceries and medication or use delivery services when possible.

Visit UrgentMED For a COVID-19 Test Today 

If you are in need of a COVID-19 test or treatment visit our website to see where one of our nearest locations is for you. 

We are open seven days a week and have extended weekday and weekend hours to better serve our patients.

Through our professional services and quality care, you can trust that you will be in good hands.