How Can I Lower My Risk of Getting COVID-19?

It’s a reality—all the news and information we’ve heard about COVID-19 since early 2020 has been alarming. For a while, it seemed like the virus numbers just kept climbing at a crazy rate.

While the numbers have leveled out some in recent weeks, you still want to do everything you can to protect yourself and those you love. That’s why our team is taking a few minutes to break down information about the virus.

Is My Family at Risk of COVID-19?

Everyone is at risk of developing the virus, but certain people are at a higher risk than others. That includes adults age 65 and older, along with anyone who is immune-compromised in any way.

As of June 1, 2020, more than 1.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with COVID-19. So do what you can to protect your health.

Symptoms of COVID-19

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

What Can I Do to Protect My Health?

COVID-19 passes from one person to another through airborne particles. Anytime an infected person sneezes, coughs or even breathes, he or she is releasing those airborne particles.

Your best defense, then, is to stay at home as much as possible and avoid close contact with others. The CDC also recommends that you wear a cloth face covering in public if age 2 or older, stay six feet away from others outside the home, and wash your hands regularly.

Basic Steps of Handwashing

• Wet your hands with running water.
• Lather your hands with soap, including between your fingers and under nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Rinse your hands under running water.
• Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.

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