Am I at Risk of Getting COVID-19?

Every person of every age, race and gender is at risk of developing COVID-19. It doesn’t discriminate, so everyone needs to take precautions to stay safe.

While COVID-19 has been in the news a lot over the past few months, there are still a lot of misconceptions about the virus. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville wants to take a few minutes to share some insight.

How Does COVID-19 Spread?

COVID-19 is a type of the coronavirus, a group of viruses that can cause upper respiratory infections. It is spread through airborne particles, which are expelled when someone who is infected breathes, sneezes, coughs or talks.

From there, those airborne particles can enter someone else’s body through the mouth or nose, or through that person coming in contact with the particles and then touching his or her face. This transmission can even occur when a person has no symptoms.

COVID-19 Symptoms

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Do Masks Help Limit the Risk of COVID-19?

You’ve probably seen that masks are recommended when out in public, but maybe you’ve wondered why. As mentioned above, COVID-19 spreads through airborne particles.

If every person wears a face covering over the mouth and nose when out in public, those particles largely stay inside the covering rather than infiltrating the air. This has been shown to greatly reduce the spread of COVID-19.

How to Prevent COVID-19

  • Stay at home whenever it’s feasible.
  • Avoid large gatherings and crowds.
  • Keep six feet between yourself and others when in public.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
  • Steer clear of anyone who may be sick.
  • Disinfect surfaces in your home, car and workplace.

If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, we are offering COVID-19 testing at our urgent care center. Visit the AFC Urgent Care Powdersville website to learn more or to schedule a testing appointment.