How does coronavirus cause COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are a large collection of viruses that may cause a range of respiratory illnesses including the common cold and other more severe illnesses. COVID-19 is an infectious illness caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The virus spreads through the droplets of saliva or nasal discharge 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 near you or if you touch a surface a sick person might have touched after sneezing or coughing into their hands.
What are the warning signs of COVID-19?
Like other viral upper respiratory infections, COVID-19 causes:
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness
- Dry cough
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
COVID-19 symptoms usually develop slowly. It’s also possible to have the virus but not have symptoms.
Around 80% of people who get a coronavirus infection recover without any special treatment and only one in six people with COVID-19 become very ill and experience difficulty breathing.
Individuals with a high risk, such as those over the age of 65 or with an existing respiratory condition, should be especially mindful of the risk and practice social distancing and exemplary hygiene.
When should I get tested for COVID-19?
A fever is one of the primary warning signs of COVID-19. For example, if you get seasonal allergies and have a runny nose or sore throat, please don’t panic.
However, if you or a member of your family develop a fever, shortness of breath, and other flu symptoms, like a dry cough, troubled breathing, and bodily aches and pains, call Family Medicine Specialists of Texas for advice and to schedule an appointment for COVID-19 testing if necessary.
Health care professionals can provide specific information on what you need to do to take care of yourself and your family.
How can I get COVID-19?
If you suspect you have COVID-19 or suspect you’ve been exposed to coronavirus, the team at Family Medicine Specialists of Texas provides the full spectrum of COVID-19 testing, including:
- PCR nasal swabs
- Antigen
- Rapid Antigen
- Antibody
- Blood antibody
You can have your results within 15-20 minutes, allowing you to have accurate and up-to-date knowledge of your health status.
The professional team at Family Medicine Specialists of Texas will determine which test is right for your specific needs.
How can I avoid the spread of COVID-19?
First and foremost, frequently wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. For example, in addition to washing your hands after using the bathroom and before you eat, you should also wash them before and after taking the dog for a walk, making a grocery run, or picking up your mail. Soap and water, as well as alcohol-based hand sanitizers, can kill any virus or other germs that are on your hands.
You should also avoid touching your face. When you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, any virus present on your hands can enter your body and lead to sickness. You should also maintain a distance of at least six feet from anyone, whether they are coughing or sneezing or not, as part of social distancing.
If you have a fever and other flu symptoms and want to know whether you need a COVID-19 test, call Family Medicine Specialists of Texas or schedule a consultation online for expert medical care and advice.
