The SARS-CoV-2 virus, first identified in late 2019, is still affecting people around the nation and the globe in early 2021. This virus causes the COVID-19 disease, a severe acute respiratory syndrome that can be life-threatening.

COVID-19 is highly contagious, and daily life has changed a lot to prevent and limit the spread of this novel coronavirus. Using masks, isolating as much as possible, and tracing potential contacts with infected people are all tools you can use to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

If you think you might have symptoms of COVID-19, it’s important to get tested, both to guide your own decisions going forward, and so that you can let others know if they need to isolate or quarantine. At GatherWell Rapid COVID Testing of Ham Lake, Edina, and Otsego, Minnesota, our team offers quick and accurate testing that can let you know if you’re positive for the coronavirus. Here’s what you need to know before you decide to schedule an appointment.

Common symptoms of COVID-19

What symptoms mean you could have COVID-19? Here’s information about the most common symptoms of this disease. If you have COVID-19, you might see symptoms including:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of smell or taste
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

Many of these symptoms can also indicate that you have a case of the flu, a cold, or even just chronic sinus issues. It can be hard to know how to handle the situation if you’re not sure whether you could have the coronavirus.

Most people see symptoms within 14 days of exposure to the virus if they’ve caught a case of COVID-19.

Testing for COVID-19

We’re still learning more about the 2019 novel coronavirus, but SARS-CoV-2 appears to spread through airborne respiratory droplets. If you suspect you could have COVID-19, testing will let you know if you have cause for concern.

It’s important to get tested if you think you could have COVID-19, or if you’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. With sufficient testing and tracing, we can collectively reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Knowing if you have COVID-19 also lets you safeguard loved ones who may be more vulnerable to this disease, including the elderly, people with suppressed immune systems, and people with at-risk respiratory systems.

At locally-owned GatherWell, you can take advantage of our drive-up testing services by appointment. We use a mobile lab test service that can provide on-site bulk testing for groups, which is helpful if you want to plan a coronavirus-safe event. Your results may be available within minutes, letting you know with a high degree of accuracy if you’re positive for COVID-19.

If you have common symptoms of COVID-19 like shortness of breath or loss of your sense of smell, come to GatherWell as soon as possible for accurate coronavirus testing. Contact us over the phone, or use the online tool to schedule your testing appointment now.