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What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious illness caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that may cause various respiratory illnesses, including the common cold and other more severe illnesses. The virus spreads through the saliva or nasal discharge droplets that you expel when you cough or sneeze. 

While these droplets are airborne, your chances of infection are low unless an infected person coughs or sneezes in your vicinity or you touch a surface that a sick person might have touched after coughing or sneezing into their hands.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Like other viral upper respiratory infections, COVID-19 causes:

• Shortness of breath
• Dry cough
• Fever
• Tiredness
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat

Symptoms of COVID-19 usually develop slowly. You can also be infected with the virus without exhibiting symptoms.

Roughly 80% of people who are infected with a coronavirus recover without any special treatment, and only one in six people with COVID-19 become very ill and experience difficulty breathing. 

Individuals at high risk, such as those over 65 or with an existing respiratory condition, should be especially mindful of the risk and practice social distancing and take extra precautions when it comes to hygiene.

What types of COVID-19 testing are available?

The two main types of COVID-19 testing available at Creekside Family Practice are:

Diagnostic COVID-19 tests

Diagnostic COVID tests determine if you have an active coronavirus infection. This highly contagious infection requires that you quarantine yourself from other people.

Molecular tests detect COVID-19’s genetic material (its RNA). Antigen tests find the proteins on the surface or shell of COVID-19. Your provider can use a nasal or throat swab or a saliva sample to diagnose active COVID-19.

Antibody tests

Antibody tests can detect antibodies in your blood specific to COVID-19. These finger sticks or blood tests can determine if you have had and recovered from COVID-19.

When should I get tested for COVID-19?

A fever is one of the primary warning signs of COVID-19. For example, symptoms like a runny nose or a sore throat could indicate seasonal allergies or the common cold.

However, if you or a family member develop a fever, shortness of breath, and other flu symptoms, like a dry cough, troubled breathing, and bodily aches and pains, call Creekside Family Practice for advice and to schedule an appointment for COVID-19 testing if necessary. 

Healthcare professionals can provide specific information on how to take care of yourself and your family. 

If you have sympotoms of COVID-19, call Creekside Family Practice or request a consultation online for expert medical care and advice.