Is COVID-19 Still a Threat for Older Adults?
The last few years have been frustrating, stressful and at times, full of grief. Losing a loved one is hard, especially if COVID-19 was to blame. Now that we are no longer experiencing such high caseloads, it can be easy to let our guards down when it comes to this stubborn infection.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 cases are on the rise once more, and older adults and immunocompromised people continue to be at a higher risk of severe infection. Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team refreshes your memory about the different facts surrounding COVID-19 below, so read on to learn more.
Is Frequent COVID-19 Testing Still Important?
Since COVID-19 is constantly mutating into different strains, getting sick one or multiple times a season is always possible. COVID-19 continues to be incredibly contagious, so a single interaction with an infected individual can cause you to get really sick.
This is why frequent testing is so important. You should come see us right away as soon as you start experiencing symptoms of illness because not only is it necessary to isolate if you have COVID-19, quick testing can also give you access to different antiviral drug treatments that can control your symptom severity.
Common Signs of COVID-19 to Watch For
- Sudden fever
- Chills
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or muscle aches
Can I Still Get a COVID-19 Vaccine?
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 remains the most reliable way of avoiding serious illness. The original series that was available for the last few years has been discontinued, and a new vaccine has been reformulated to offer more comprehensive protection against the current strains of COVID-19.
Anyone ages 6 months or older should be getting the reformulated vaccine as we progress into the fall and winter season. We want you to stay as healthy as possible, so come see us at the first sign of any sort of illness and certainly seek medical attention if you start to experience any of the serious COVID-19 symptoms listed below.
Serious COVID-19 Symptoms
- Respiratory distress
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Pale, gray- or blue-colored skin and lips
Feeling ill? Stop by for a COVID-19 rapid test at our AFC Urgent Care Louisville center.