Across the U.S. and the world, mask requirements have mostly been removed, lockdowns lifted, and the COVID-19 virus is not ravaging as before. While all these are positive signs, it does not remove the fact that the disease is still affecting people. Besides, new strains of the virus are spreading fast. As such, federal way covid testing is a key element in curbing the spread of the disease. Numerous testing options are available, ranging from rapid antigen to PCR tests. Nonetheless, even if you test for COVID less frequently than before, here are five key reasons to consider undergoing a test.
- You Have Potential Covid Symptoms
A sore throat or stuffy nose can indicate anything from seasonal allergies to a cold, or even Covid. The only means to be certain is to undergo testing. Potential Covid symptoms that necessitate testing include chills or fever, headaches, difficulty breathing, cough, body or muscle aches, fatigue, loss of smell or taste, nasal congestion, and more.
Besides, various Covid sub-variants continue spreading. Though vaccines offer solid protection, these variants can still bypass the vaccine and induce infection. Having tests allows you to determine your status.
- You Were Exposed To An Infected Person
Has your colleague, friend, relative, or another person you have been in close contact with tested positive for Covid? If so, you should also consider undergoing testing. You have been deemed a close contact if you are within 6 feet of an infected individual for over 15 minutes in 24 hours. However, you should note that Covid symptoms do not always appear immediately, and it might take up to two days for a victim to develop symptoms, or not develop any at all.
- You Want To Meet A High-Risk Individual
If you want to meet a relative or friend whose health status or age makes them vulnerable to serious illnesses due to Covid, you should take the necessary precautions. High-risk individuals include anybody who is 65 years or more, pregnant, has a chronic health issue, or has poor immunity.
Weeks before your meetup, adopt precautionary measures like wearing a mask and avoiding huge social gatherings. Moreover, undergo testing a day before your interaction.
- You Have or Are Attending A Huge Event
Considering that persons are currently attending huge events or gatherings without taking precautionary measures like social distancing and masking, it is necessary to undergo testing. For instance, undergoing testing before attending such an event reassures you that you are not risking transmitting the Covid virus to loved ones.
Likewise, undergoing testing days after such events ensures you do not take the virus back home to your kin. Specialists also advise patients to quarantine for some time in such cases.
- Resuming Work or School
As schools and businesses reopen, you should undergo Covid testing. Such tests ensure you do not risk infecting colleagues or fellow students if you have the virus. Moreover, these tests also protect you from contracting the infection if somebody else is a carrier.
Most employers or schools subject individuals to PCR tests, which are performed through the throat or nasal swabs. Moreover, such institutions may demand that you get vaccinated before resumption.
As the fight against Covid persists, it is more crucial than ever to feel protected, and safe. Do not assume the disease is over simply because it is not as devastating as before. Obtaining the correct test whenever necessary could make a huge difference in the number of new infections. If you suspect that you might be exposed to Covid, or begin showing any warning signs, consider having a test. Based on your unique circumstances, your practitioner may suggest various Covid-19 tests, including an antigen, antibody, or molecular test.
