We can almost guarantee that if we asked you if you knew someone who had a serious or even deadly COVID-19 case over the past couple of years, you would say yes. It affected our entire country in ways we could have never imagined.

We are so grateful that cases haven’t reached the peaks that they did back in 2020 and 2021, but COVID-19 is still out there and can still make you really sick.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hickory team explains more about the current COVID-19 symptoms below, so read on to refresh your memory ahead of the fall and winter seasons to come.

Who Can Get COVID-19?

Everyone is at risk at any time of contracting COVID-19. It is an incredibly contagious infection that can spread through entire communities in a matter of days. This virus is changing and mutating all of the time, which means that there are some strains out there that you are not immune to, even if you have already had COVID-19 once or more.

While it is important to remember that the majority of people who contract COVID-19 only experience mild to moderate symptoms, there are a small subset of the population that can experience severe or even deadly infections. Older adults, young children and people with compromised immune systems are all more likely to suffer COVID-19 complications. Come see us right away if you start to experience any of the below symptoms.

Current COVID-19 Symptoms to Watch

• Sudden fever
• Chills
• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or muscle aches

Can the Vaccine Protect Me From Getting COVID-19?

The vaccine remains one of the most reliable ways to avoid getting sick entirely, as well as minimizing symptom severity if you do experience a breakthrough case. It is important to keep in mind that breakthrough cases do still happen unfortunately, but your chances of suffering from a serious case is extremely low if you are vaccinated.

If you had your initial vaccine series, you should also stay current with booster shots as recommended. The latest boosters will be available beginning in late September or October. If you do still end up getting sick, isolate while you are feeling ill and take care of yourself by staying hydrated and by getting a lot of rest.

Dangerous 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 AFC Urgent Care Hickory.