Covid Testing Specialist

What is COVID-19?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an illness caused by the newly discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). 

Though researchers are still learning about this new virus and COVID-19, the disease spreads through respiratory droplets when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. Most infections occur when you’re in close contact with an infected person. 

COVID-19 most often causes mild symptoms, like a fever, muscle aches, and cough. However, some people develop life-threatening symptoms that require hospitalization.

COVID testing helps identify those with the infection, which may prevent the further spreading of the virus. Valdosta Family Medicine Associates, P.C., offers COVID testing. 

Who needs COVID testing?

The team at Valdosta Family Medicine Associates, P.C., determines who needs COVID testing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone with COVID-19 symptoms benefits from COVID testing.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Cough 
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of sense of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Headache or muscle aches
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

You should also get tested for COVID-19 if you were in close contact with someone who tested positive for the virus. 

You may also need COVID testing if you’re unvaccinated for COVID-19 and participated in a high-risk activity (e.g., airline travel, large gathering, or poorly ventilated indoor event).

What happens during COVID testing?

Your provider at Valdosta Family Medicine Associates, P.C., explains the details of your COVID testing at the time of your test. If your provider suspects you have an active infection, they perform a viral test.

During a viral test, your provider collects secretions from the back of your nose. The viral test takes a few minutes, and it may take a few hours or a few days to get your results. 

If you suspect you had COVID-19 but never got tested when you were sick, the team may perform a COVID antigen test. That is a blood test that looks for COVID-19 antibodies. 

What happens after COVID testing?

After a viral test for an active infection, your provider recommends you quarantine until you get the results. Once they have your COVID testing results, the team provides additional instructions to protect you and the people in your community. 

There’s nothing special you need to do after a COVID antigen test. 

Find out more about COVID testing at Valdosta Family Medicine Associates, P.C., by calling the office or scheduling an appointment online today.