The numbers are pretty crazy—as of June 1, more than 1.5 million Americans had been diagnosed with COVID-19. That number included nearly 30,000 North Carolinians.

While the number of new cases has leveled off slightly, COVID-19 is still a real and present risk. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia wants to provide some tips on how you can protect yourself and others.

What Should I Do if I Experience COVID-19 Symptoms?

COVID-19 passes from person to person through airborne particles. That means that if you’re infected, you can transmit the virus to others when you sneeze, cough or even breathe.

If you are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19, talk with your doctor about the symptoms you’re having. If you have mild symptoms, he or she will likely recommend treating your symptoms with OTC medications and self-care. For more severe symptoms, emergency care may be needed. In any case, sequester yourself away from others when you have symptoms.

Symptoms of COVID-19

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose

Does Wearing a Mask Really Help?

While there’s a lot of misinformation out there about masks, the reality is that they can help you protect your health and that of others around you. The CDC recommends that everyone age 2 and older wear a mask when out in public.

The mask provides the person wearing it to an extent, but it is designed to help protect others, too. Wearing a mask can help keep your airborne particles inside in the case you are an asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic carrier of the virus. By wearing one, you are helping stop the community spread of the illness.

Other Ways to Prevent COVID-19

• Stay six feet away from others while outside the home.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds at a time.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces and objects often.
• Limit time spent outside the home as much as possible.
• Avoid contact with anyone exhibiting symptoms.

If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, we are offering COVID-19 testing at our urgent care center. Visit the AFC Urgent Care Gastonia website to learn more or to schedule a testing appointment.