Author: Rapid Care

With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging on, planning a vacation has become quite a challenging task compared to how it used to be. Yet, with kids leaving school and companies rounding off for the year, many families are eager to travel and reconnect. 

While family time is priceless, we still need to acknowledge that the threat is still around. Cases are still rising in some parts of the world. No matter where you’re going, though, it’s always a good idea to plan and strategize for holiday travels and vacations. 

While you have probably been taking the necessary COVID-19 precautions – such as wearing nose masks, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands frequently – you may be wondering if there is anything else you can do to protect yourself and your family. In this blog post, our team will address a few additional tips you can use to ensure your holiday trip is safe and easy.

Take Note of COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

COVID-19 data varies between countries and even from state to state. That’s why you need to stay updated on COVID-19 guidelines in both your area and your destination. These guidelines can change drastically from time to time, so it’s important to check frequently to catch any changes. In addition, you should take a look at airline requirements if you are flying and prepare yourself for what you should do if you test positive during your holiday trip.

Different countries have different quarantine requirements for arrivals that can vary based on the country they traveled from. In addition, some countries have different requirements for showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Others may require proof of your vaccination status before or upon arrival. 

Before starting your trip, you’ll need to make sure you gather all of the necessary documents beforehand so you can prepare yourself for the worst-case scenario. Preparing ahead of time will make for a hassle-free travel experience.

Avoid The Weekend Rush

This is probably one of the most important COVID-19 travel tips to follow. Before the pandemic, a weekend getaway was probably one of the best vacation ideas. Nowadays, most vacation spots are too overcrowded on weekends. 

Instead of planning your getaway on a weekend, it may be better to travel to your destination on a weekday because it’s usually much less crowded. The fewer people around you, the less likely it is for you to catch COVID-19.

Book Hotels & Lodging Wisely

If you’re getting a hotel, it’s important to ask about the flexibility of your destination’s check-in and check-out rules before you arrive. For instance, you may want to know what would happen if you needed to extend your stay in your hotel if you tested positive for COVID-19. 

Be sure to make all necessary inquiries from the hotel’s support staff before you book your hotel or lodging. Different hotels have different policies for lodging during COVID-19. 

Be Mindful of Hotspots

You should always be mindful of traveling to places where COVID-19 is spreading at a higher rate. If you have to travel to a COVID-19 hotspot zone, be sure to prepare yourself so you can stay as safe as possible. 

Fortunately, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers tools that you can use to check COVID-19-related data for every state in the United States. 

The CDC uses datasets – including the percentage of positive tests in a community, new cases, and the rate of community transmission –  to categorize the risk of contracting COVID-19 in any given state in the United States. They divide the level of risk into four categories. 

The four categories are: high, substantial, moderate, and low. You can check the level of community transmission of where you wish to travel to in the United States at any time. You can also check the COVID-19 stats of most countries by using this tool provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

Wherever you’re going, whether it’s a COVID-19 hotspot or not, you need to be prepared. There are a few simple precautions you can take whether you’re planning a domestic or international vacation. These precautions include:

• Determining your COVID-19 status through COVID-19 testing before you travel as close to your departure time as possible
• Wearing a nose mask while on public transport
• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based (minimum of 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer
• Practicing social distancing and staying at least 2 meters apart from other travelers while you’re en route

Understand Your Family’s COVID-19 Risk Status

Converging lines of evidence have shown that children and senior citizens are at a greater risk of falling severely ill from COVID-19. Before you travel, it is pertinent to understand everyone’s risk status. 

You can take a look at our blog about underlying conditions to help you determine if anyone in your party has those risks. Pregnant family members also have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection and need to be extra careful when traveling. 

To protect you and your family, even more, you can plan out how to get medical help during your trip by researching your destination’s healthcare facilities and travel insurance plans. You should also plan for a quick trip back home in case anyone gets seriously ill while traveling.

Choose Your Mode of Travel

Most airlines, train stations, and other modes of transportation now operate at full capacity. While this may be a sign that things are returning to the way they used to be before the pandemic, you should still try to stay safe during your trip regardless of your mode of travel.

Keep It Simple

There’s no denying that the ongoing pandemic has altered our day-to-day lives. Grand and fancy celebrations with large crowds are a thing of the past, at least for now. For the time being, we need to adapt to this new normal and find ways to stay as safe as we possibly can. 

Sometimes choosing an outdoor vacation may be your best bet for staying safe without having to worry about the spread of COVID-19.

Schedule an Appointment for COVID-19 Testing in Memphis, Germantown, & Winston-Salem Before You Travel

Before you get on the road or walk into an airport, you should always have a plan. A good plan will keep you safe and also give you the relaxing, hassle-free vacation you deserve during these trying times. At Rapid Care Testing, we provide fast and accurate COVID-19 travel testing services. Our services include same-day COVID-19 testing in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem, so you can get on the road quicker. 

Visit us or contact us today to get your Rapid COVID-19 test before you travel!

You probably know already that certain population groups are more susceptible to COVID-19 than others. Additionally, COVID-19 impacts our health far more than the acute stage of the illness itself. 

With continued research, medical experts are uncovering more about the behavior of the virus. In this article, we will discuss how COVID-19 affects people with underlying conditions so that you can make pre-informed decisions about your health. 

We will also provide more information on how you can keep yourself safe by utilizing the different COVID-19 testing services in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem. 

Let’s dive in.

The Link Between COVID-19 and Other Diseases

COVID-19 symptoms vary widely for different individuals. While some may experience no symptoms at all, people with underlying health conditions may experience severe symptoms from its infection. 

Typical pre-existing health conditions that fall within this category include cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, diabetes, and other metabolic syndromes. 

Read on to learn about the relationship between COVID-19 and each of these disease conditions. 

COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Disease

Many types of cardiovascular diseases can make you develop serious symptoms from COVID-19. For instance, if you have congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease, you’re at risk for severe symptoms of COVID-19. 

Beyond having aggravated symptoms, people with cardiovascular diseases have a higher chance of developing severe pneumonia and other severe symptoms. Moreover, people with cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure usually exhibit symptoms that are similar to those of respiratory disorders, which may exacerbate COVID-19 symptoms. 

For instance, people with heart failure usually experience shortness of breath as a result of congestion in the chest. This poses a more serious risk if these patients contract COVID-19. 

Association Between COVID-19 and Respiratory Disease

COVID-19 targets the respiratory system. Hence, you’re more likely to develop severe symptoms if you have one or more pre-existing respiratory disorders, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, lung cancer, and more. Patients with these conditions already have a compromised respiratory system.

Furthermore, flu-like symptoms related to cold and allergic conditions may also overlap with the symptoms of COVID-19. Appropriate COVID-19 testing is recommended for accurately diagnosing a positive case of COVID-19 from typical respiratory disease or flu.

COVID-19 and Kidney Or Liver Disease

Weakened immune systems are usually associated with chronic kidney or liver disease. In the context of infectious diseases, the immune system plays a large role in protecting individuals from serious illness. Hence, people with kidney or liver disease are at a greater risk of serious illnesses from COVID-19 infection. 

Beyond that, having COVID-19 and taking medications to treat liver or kidney disease may have deteriorative effects on either the liver or the kidney. If you have either chronic liver or kidney disease, we recommend that you adhere to safety guidelines to keep yourself safe. 

Also, get tested as soon as possible if you have been exposed, so you can begin your quarantine immediately so your recovery period can begin quickly.

The Link Between COVID-19 & Diabetes

Diabetes affects a person’s immune response to infectious diseases. Therefore, people with diabetes are also more likely to develop serious symptoms from COVID-19. Evidence has shown that people with diabetes who contract COVID have a 7.3% higher mortality rate compared to the general mortality rate of 2.3%.

Fortunately, these risks can be avoided by keeping your blood glucose under control and adhering to the medication use regimen of your diabetes medications. 

There seems to be a connection between diabetes and obesity, and consequently severe COVID-19 illness. If you’re overweight, try as much as possible to lose weight by engaging in regular physical activity and eating healthily. 

How to Keep Yourself Safe if You Have a Pre-existing Condition

Regardless of your pre-existing health condition, keeping yourself safe is recommended for preventing serious illness from COVID-19 symptoms. One of the easiest and most effective ways for keeping yourself safe is through appropriate testing. 

Fortunately, you can now get a same-day COVID-testing in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem. Additionally, in cases where you cannot differentiate COVID-19 symptoms from other types of infections such as flu, the dual flu, and COVID-19 rapid antigen test is now available to differentiate these infections. 

For people with pre-existing health conditions, getting tested immediately informs them about their states so they can protect themselves before severe illnesses begin to develop. Fortunately, regardless of the type of test, whether a rapid RT PCR Test, Rapid Antigen Test, or the dual flu and COVID-19 rapid antigen test, you can get your results the same day.

Apart from getting tested for COVID-19, it is also important to always adhere to recommended COVID-19 safety guidelines. That is, continue to practice social distancing, wear a protective mask where necessary such as in public places, and regularly wash your hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

As part of additional safety guidelines for individuals with a pre-existing health condition, ensure to have at least a 30-day supply of your regular prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Lastly, whether you have a pre-existing health condition or not, you should consider getting tested so you can keep yourself and your family safe. You will also find getting tested for COVID-19 useful in cases when you need to travel.

Contact Us for COVID-19 Tests In Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem

At Rapid Care, we’re committed to keeping you safe during these trying times by providing you with updated information about COVID-19 and how you can keep yourself and loved ones safe through COVID-19 testing. Feel free to schedule an appointment for same-day COVID-19 testing in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem.

It is needless to say that COVID-19 is still circulating widely, so getting sick while traveling is a real possibility that travelers have to consider while planning their journey. Hence, it’s a good idea to run several scenarios in your head during these trying times to avoid stressful logistical headaches. 

Think about it – how do you handle accommodation concerns if you have to quarantine abroad? How about issues? Can you extend your stay in your lodging? What are the COVID-19 policies in your destination hotel? 

If you’re planning a trip, then it’s time to consider these questions and start planning for COVID-19. Read on to check out a few things you should consider.

Rules or No Rules – Always Test Before You Travel

Travel requirements for COVID-19 vary from state to state and country to country. Regardless of COVID-19 policies and regulations in your destination state, country, or airline, you should consider testing since this is a more cautious approach. 

Additionally, you should prepare for unexpected changes regarding travel policies during COVID-19 at your destination. As a matter of fact, the Centers for Diseases and Control (CDC) advises travelers within the United States to get tested as close to the time of departure as possible. A PCR test is highly recommended for traveling because it provides a higher level of reassurance for yourself and for the authorities. 

Know Your Destination’s COVID-19 Related Rules Before You Travel

This is very important because border restrictions and entry requirements for travel change constantly during COVID-19. A basic rule of thumb is to familiarize yourself with your destination’s COVID-19 travel guidelines. 

Check out their policies on quarantine measures since it is not uncommon for countries to implement or lift travel bans at short notice for the purpose of controlling the spread of COVID-19. Hence, you should stay updated regularly.

Check Your Airline Change or Cancellation Policies

Different airlines have different policies concerning COVID-19. For instance, some airlines are flexible enough to allow you to change your departure or return plans without any charge if you get COVID-19 close to or during your trip. Before you travel, look for airlines with a travel insurance policy that covers COVID-19-related events and policy changes. 

Sometimes, all you need is evidence that you tested positive for COVID-19, so you can change your flight reservations with minimal penalties, and sometimes without it. Fortunately, we provide same-day COVID tests if you’re flying to or from Memphis or Germantown, TN, or Winston-Salem, NC, and you quickly want to verify your status.

Get Tested Immediately if You Have Symptoms

You may get symptoms related to COVID-19 upon arrival at your destination state or country. We advise that you do not wait until you get home if you experience a cold, flu, or other symptoms that are similar to COVID-19. Fortunately, you can schedule a same-day COVID-19 test in Memphis and  Germantown, TN, and Winston-Salem, NC.

Go With Extra Medications & Necessities in Case You Need to Delay Your Return

You also need to prepare yourself for extra days if you’re traveling. We advise that you travel along with everything you need for up to ten extra days just in case you get COVID-19 and you’re quarantined in your destination country. 

If there’s any medication that you currently use to manage one or more conditions, make sure you include these medications and pack extra that can stay for at least ten additional days. For people with special health conditions, you may want to check if travel medical insurance covers your medical bills while you’re abroad.

Investigate How to Get Medical Care if You Get Sick During Your Trip

It is important to consider the medical services that would be available to you if you get COVID-19 or get sick in your destination country. Give some thought to the medical care that is available.

For instance, if you’re traveling to a place where their medical services are poorly developed, you may consider contacting your travel insurance or making possible reservations for emergency evacuation back home if you get sick. Also, consider discussing your medication needs with your medical care provider so you can have the fullest understanding of the scope of care that you may need.

Ask About the COVID-19 Flexibility & Policies at Your Hotel or Rental Home

Regardless of whether you test positive or show symptoms of COVID-19, conditions may warrant you to extend your trip in order to quarantine. We encourage you to prepare yourself for different scenarios before you travel. 

For instance, check to see if your hotel or rental home will allow you to stay longer, and review their current check-in protocols for guests exposed or infected with COVID-19. Some hotels may allow you to extend your stay if you’ve already checked in and you test positive for COVID-19 while there. 

Check to see your destination’s hotel policies, rules, and level of flexibility for COVID-19 uncertainties. Hence, run through potential scenarios in your head so you can prepare adequately for your accommodation needs.

Keep Yourself & Your Loved Ones Safe Always

Keeping yourself and your family safe by following COVID-19-related guidelines is key to protecting yourself from the infection regardless of your vaccination status. Continue to practice social distancing, wear masks and clean your hands regularly with alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

Contact Us for a COVID-19 Test for Travel in Memphis, Germantown, & Winston-Salem

Are you preparing to travel anytime soon? Relax! At Rapid Care Testing, we provide same-day COVID-19 tests in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem. Feel free to book an appointment today for your same-day COVID-19 test so your trip can be hassle-free. We will be glad to receive you!

We’ve noticed different updates around travel since the beginning of the pandemic. This highlights the importance of staying ahead of COVID-19 testing requirements for travel. Although COVID-19 vaccines are effective for preventing severe infection from SARS-COV-2, testing will go a long way in helping to prevent the spread of the virus.

However, the role of COVID-19 testing in preventing the spread of the virus is highly important. We’re on a mission to help you stay safe during these trying times and make your traveling hassle-free. If you want to travel within the US, then this is what you should know about the recent update by the CDC.

Understanding the Nature of COVID-19 Testing Updates

Updates in COVID-19 testing requirements for travel are no longer news. Changes in COVID-19 testing recommendations are usually based on new information uncovered about the virus and the spread of the infection. 

For instance, if data shows increasing cases of coronavirus infection, then there may be an update on the requirements. Other conditions, such as seasonal changes like during holiday periods where domestic and international travels are high, can trigger an update in COVID-19 testing requirements.

Why Now?

Whether you’re fully vaccinated or not, testing is a mainstay strategy for curtailing the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Traveling increases a person’s risk of getting and spreading the virus. 

Although COVID-19 vaccines are effective in protecting against COVID-19 infection, there are still concerns about people who show symptoms related to COVID-19 despite being up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Additionally, we’re in the busiest time of the summer with increasing average daily coronavirus cases. Hence the need for adjustment to the coronavirus testing requirements.

Everything You Need to Know about the New Update

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updated its requirements for domestic travel. The requirement urges travelers to take a COVID-19 test close to departure regardless of their vaccination status. 

The CDC also recommended a post-flight testing rule after travelers’ trips for situations with greater risk of exposure such as being in crowded places or not wearing a fitting nose mask. Additionally, all existing COVID-19 safety guidelines still stand, and they should be followed before, during, and after your trip.

Schedule Your COVID-19 Test in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem

PCR tests are the gold standard for COVID-19 testing. Again, this is the type of test that is well recognized by major domestic and international airlines. At Rapid Care, we provide our patients with QR codes and laboratory test results that are required for travel.

We also offer same-day COVID-19 tests in Memphis, Germantown, and Winston-Salem. Feel free to schedule an appointment today for your same-day COVID-19 test so your trip can be hassle-free. 

Relax! We will constantly keep you updated about changes related to COVID-19 testing and traveling during these trying times.

Patients have so many questions about COVID-19 tests. They want to know the accuracy and factors affecting the sensitivity and accuracy of test results. Given the role COVID-19 testing plays in helping to control the spread of the virus, more attention is drawn to the reliability of these tests and standard protocols that determine the accuracy of COVID-19 lab test results. 

If you have questions about the accuracy and reliability of these tests, then you’re in the right place. In this guide, you will learn about the quality of specimens, instruments, and chemical reagents used for conducting the test. At Rapid Care, we’re committed to providing you with the latest information so you can make informed decisions that meet your needs.

Facts You Should Know About COVID-19 Tests

COVID-19 testing plays a critical role in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Hence, following appropriate testing guidelines is key to having accurate diagnostic test results.

For COVID-19 testing, nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred clinical specimen for sample collection for COVID-19 tests. This is because they demonstrate a significantly higher positivity rate and significantly higher mean viral load on nasal samples than oropharyngeal swab samples. 

Samples collected through this route have a lower chance of false or inconclusive results. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sterile swabs should be used for sample collection to preserve specimen integrity and to assure patient safety as well. 

Standard protocol for COVID-19 testing requires samples to be collected via the nasopharyngeal route as recommended by the CDC. Additionally, swabs containing materials that can inactivate some viruses shouldn’t be used because these can inhibit molecular tests and result in inconclusive results.

Hence, swabs with wooden shafts and swabs containing calcium alginate should not be used for COVID-19 testing. Only synthetic fiber swabs with thin plastics or wire swabs that have been specifically designed for collecting samples from the nasopharyngeal mucosa are recommended by the CDC. 

Standard Requirements for COVID-19 Testing Sites in Memphis & Germantown, TN

All COVID-19 testing sites must meet certain minimum standards set out by the government and regulatory authorities. Some of these standards include evidence of implementation of a quality management system that demonstrates their ability to produce accurate laboratory test results.

Additionally, COVID-19 testing sites should make provisions for safety. They should also put processes in place for infection prevention and control precautions when collecting samples for COVID-19 tests and while performing diagnostic testing. 

Furthermore, testing procedures must comply with standard procedures designed by regulatory authorities such as the CDC. At Rapid Care, our test performance follows the highest standards for accurate results. 

We offer different kinds of COVID-19 tests, such as the Dual Flu and COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test, COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test, COVID-19 Rapid Antibody (IgG/IgM) Test, and COVID-19 RT-PCR Test for business, travel, holidays, and vacations. By following the standards and protocol laid out above, you can feel confident in the accuracy of your results.

At Rapid Care Testing, we follow the latest standard guidelines for COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN, and we make the testing experience hassle-free. Schedule an appointment for your COVID-19 testing, and we will be happy to receive you!

It is needless to say traveling has been hit hard in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. On a daily basis, uncertainties surrounding travel restrictions continue to grow amid rising new COVID-19 variants. 

Thankfully, the pandemic does not totally restrict you from traveling and getting back to business or your loved ones as long as you understand the various travel testing requirements. Read on to discover what you need to know about COVID-19 travel and testing requirements.

Overview of the Various Types of Tests

Different types of COVID-19 tests exist. The aim of these tests is to detect the presence of the virus that causes COVID-19. Proper interpretation of test results is also important to help you keep yourself and your family safe. 

A negative test result means you do not have COVID-19 at the time of the test, so it is not a license for you to stop staying safe. But if you test positive, then you need to self-isolate even if you do not show symptoms. Check out these various types of COVID-19 tests and what they mean for travel.

Antigen Test

The rapid antigen test detects antigens that are found within or on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test is fast and can be used as a home-based rapid test kit. Because COVID-19 testing requirements change regularly, it is essential to determine if just the rapid test is acceptable in various airlines and destination countries.

PCR Test

The PCR test is usually considered the gold standard for COVID-19 tests due to its ability to detect the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through a nasal swab. It is highly accurate and provides efficient results. Most airlines and destination countries require proof of a negative PCR test for COVID-19, although requirements may vary.

Dual Flu & COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test

COVID-19 infection has overlapping symptoms with flu-related infections, so it can be difficult to detect unless with standard diagnostic testing. Thankfully, a new addition to the diagnostic testing kits is the dual flu & COVID-19 rapid antigen test which is capable of detecting both the virus causing COVID-19 and the influenza virus strains A and B. Fortunately, we conduct this test at Rapid Care.

Understanding COVID-19 Testing Requirements for Travel

Times have changed since the beginning of the pandemic, so there are a few things you should know if you’re considering traveling during these uncertain times. Remember, traveling requirements evolve from time to time so you need to keep yourself updated. Understanding the testing requirements in your destination country is key. 

Additionally, these testing requirements vary from state to state and country to country. They constantly get updated so you need to familiarize yourself with them. Thankfully, at Rapid Care, we prepare you for the various types of tests that you may need for travel and work so you can proceed with peace of mind. 

A growing number of agencies and the government are handing out free COVID-19 tests. Although these tests are based on good practice guidelines, they CANNOT be used for travel, work, and school. At Rapid Care, our tests follow standard procedures, and you will receive your result that same day for travel, work, and return-to-school tests. 

There are no hidden costs with our tests as seen with travel tests at CVS or Walgreens that can charge you $150 – $300 unexpectedly. Also, we value your time, so we do everything to keep you safe during your test. You don’t even have to stay around sick people, unlike many other testing sites.

We follow the best performance standards at Rapid Care that will provide you with fast and efficient testing results within the same day. Schedule an appointment for COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN.

Many people who get COVID-19 develop symptoms that are similar to those of a cold or flu. Since we’re in the middle of the flu season, it is easy to get on a different level of anxiety. 

Fortunately, stuffy nose and scratchy throat shouldn’t be anything to get alarmed about given advances in improved COVID-19 testing with the dual flu and COVID-19 rapid antigen test. 

Read on to learn more about how to know the difference between these two and how the dual flu and COVID-19 rapid antigen test brings diagnosis to a whole different level.

Knowing The Difference Between COVID-19 & Flu

There is a lot of overlap between flu and COVID-19 symptoms. So knowing the difference accurately can be tricky. For instance, common symptoms of both infections are cough, muscle aches, sneezing, sore throat, running nose, stuffy nose, and more. 

However, the degree to which each of these symptoms is manifested varies for both infections. For instance, a new loss of sense of taste or smell is usually experienced without a runny or stuffy nose as an early symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, loss of sense of taste or smell rarely manifests during flu infection. 

It is difficult to accurately diagnose the differences between the flu and cold just by empirically examining symptoms alone. We cannot also measure the degree of occurrence of a symptom by mere observation too. Testing is needed to accurately diagnose COVID-19 or flu.

How The Dual Flu & COVID Test Works

Understandably flu is a seasonal infection that affects people around fall or winter times. But we now live in unusual times since the beginning of the pandemic. It is important to accurately differentiate between infection with COVID-19 or flu. 

Fortunately, the rapid flu and COVID-19 combination test kit is now available for diagnosing infection with either flu or COVID-19 in a single testing session. The dual test is able to detect the presence of either of these two viruses in many individuals, including children over the age of two years, and test results are usually ready in as little as 30 minutes. 

The testing kit uses a nasal swab that is inserted into the lower nostril and is capable of detecting and differentiating certain proteins on the surface of SARS-COV-2 and protein antigens of influenza virus A and influenza B in the human nasopharynx. 

Diagnosis of flu or COVID-19 using the dual test is not just accurate; it is also qualitative because results are seen as color bands that indicate the presence of a specific antigen that is unique to each of the different pathogens. Test results are usually ready within just 30 minutes.

Why Do We Need A Combination Test Now?

It is not unusual for most people to underestimate discomforting symptoms like the common cold, fever, and many other COVID-19 and flu-related symptoms. So when they experience these symptoms, they try to manage it on their own without diagnosis or just based on the notion that flu always runs its course and subsides after a while. 

But times are different now since the beginning of the pandemic. Accurately diagnosing whether the infection is flu or COVID-19 is key to preventing complications and to keeping yourself and others safe too. The good news is that the combination test is fast, safe and you can get your result in as little as 30 minutes.

At Rapid Care Testing, we make health care accessible to everyone by providing highly accurate and rapid COVID-19 testing that follows the best performance standards. Schedule an appointment today for dual flu and COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN. It takes just 30 minutes!

As new variants continue to emerge, Information about COVID-19 keeps getting updated on a daily basis. So it is easy to get confused about what steps you should take regarding testing and keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during these trying times. 

As a matter of fact, there are COVID-19 testing myths that you should not believe. 

In this guide, we will show you what you need to know about COVID-19 testing.

Do’s

Whether you’re vaccinated or not, here are a few things you should know before or after COVID-19 testing.

Isolate if You Test Positive for COVID-19

Regardless of your vaccination status, if you test positive for COVID-19, you should isolate yourself for at least five days till you recover. Your vaccination status doesn’t stop you from adhering to COVID-19 safety guidelines. 

But if you test negative with a rapid antigen home test, it doesn’t mean you do not have COVID-19, so you should schedule a PCR test with a standard COVID-19 testing site. 

Commit Yourself to Keep Your Immune System Strong

Keeping your immune system at its best is one of the ways of combating the coronavirus infection. This is also regardless of your vaccination status and even if you’ve received a booster dose. 

Boosting your immune system doesn’t necessarily begin with taking immune booster supplements. You can start committing to boosting your immune system by keeping stress levels low and keeping yourself hydrated. 

Commit to Staying Safe Always

Family events, holidays, and fun times with friends matter a lot, no doubt. However, if you’re not feeling well, you should stay home to keep yourself and others safe. If you have a fever and related symptoms, continue to self-isolate till you’re fully well.

Don’ts

Staying safe during these trying times also means debunking some COVID-19 testing myths. Here are a few things you shouldn’t do before or after your test.

Don’t Let A Negative Test Stop You from Taking Precautions

A negative COVID-19 test only proves that COVID-19 was not detected at the time of the test. This is because COVID-19 tests are only snapshots in time, so regardless of your test results, you should still commit to staying safe and taking precautions. 

Continue to practice social distancing, wear face masks, regularly use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and remember to wash your hands with soap and water as often as possible.

Don’t Believe That You Shouldn’t Get Tested Because You’re Fully Vaccinated

If you have symptoms, you should get tested regardless of your vaccination status. Similarly, if you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, you should also get tested whether you show symptoms or not. Moreover, you should isolate yourself while awaiting your test results. 

Don’t Stop Watching Out for Symptoms Following a Test

Staying conscious of COVID-19-related symptoms is a continuous effort during these trying times. Watch out for symptoms that are flu-like in nature. Typical examples include cough, chills, shortness of breath, and loss of perception of smell and taste. 

Regularly stay conscious of these symptoms while committing to staying safe by adhering to COVID-19 guidelines and boosting your immune system.

At Rapid Care Testing, our test performance follows the highest standards. Schedule a convenient same-day COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN.