COVID-19 has been plaguing us for some time now and although many are familiar with the symptoms and what to do if infected, not everyone is. The disease is spread when two people are in close contact with each other, typically within six feet for more than 15 minutes. It is passed through respiratory droplets and particles that come from the mouth and nose. This means it can be difficult to know exactly how or when you contracted the virus. It is important to search for a COVID test near me and confirm whether you have the virus or not. 

Stay Home (Quarantine)

To prevent further spread of COVID-19, you should quarantine and avoid contact with anyone else if you believe you may have been exposed to the virus. Do not go to work, school, or any other public area. You should quarantine for at least two weeks or until you have a negative COVID test. 

Separate From Household Members

Quarantining safely can be difficult when you are surrounded by household members.  You will need to stay away from everyone in your household to prevent spreading the virus. Do not share spaces in your home with others such as the bedroom, bathroom, and other common areas if possible. 

Get a Covid Test

There are various ways that you can find a COVID test near me. You can contact your doctor, local health center, or visit an UrgentMED location. If you are showing symptoms you will need to be tested immediately. While awaiting your results you should isolate which means staying home and away from others. If your results are positive, you will then need to continue quarantining. If you test negative, you should be able to return to your daily routine. 

Monitor Your Symptoms

Symptoms should be monitored for 14 days. Your temperature should be taken twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Additionally, look for shortness of breath, cough, chills, sore throat, muscle pain, and loss of taste or smell. 

Clean, Clean, Clean

Cleaning is one of the best ways to kill germs of any kind, including COVID. You should frequently clean high-touch areas like counters, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, phones, keyboards, tabletops, and more. You should also wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you are unable to access soap and water, use hand sanitizer. Do not touch your face with unwashed hands. 

Social Distance

Staying away from others is one of the best ways to stop the spread of the virus. Even if you test negative for COVID you should maintain a safe distance away from other people. This means staying at least 6 feet from others and wearing a mask. 

Find a COVID Test Near Me

If you or a loved one is showing symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, you need to get tested immediately. Once you get your test results, you may need to inform those around you that they need to be tested as well. Informing everyone you have encountered is important as they were exposed and should begin the process of getting tested and quarantining. When you are looking for a COVID test near me, contact UrgentMED today.