Are you worrying that you have COVID-19 every time you cough or sneeze? If so, it’s OK. We’re definitely living in strange times right now.

COVID-19 definitely has all of our stress and anxiety levels way up, but how nervous should you actually be if you get the virus? Is there a way to know how sick you can get? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail answers these questions and provides further information.

How Sick Will I Be If I Get the Virus?

While symptoms are different in every case, the CDC states that most people who get COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and can fully recover at home without requiring special treatment.

Even with this in mind, this virus is no joke. Although death rates typically increase among senior citizens and those with underlying health conditions, COVID-19 has claimed the lives of one in 1,000 Americans, both young and old. It’s vital to practice the below-mentioned health-safety precautions to lower your risk of getting the virus and to work to slow the spread.

Ways to Prevent Unnecessary Risk

• Avoid large gatherings.
• Avoid close contact with others who aren’t in your immediate household.
• Wear a face mask over your nose and mouth in public.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home if you feel sick.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Should I Go to the Hospital If I Test Positive?

Not necessarily. Because healthcare resources are already stretched so thin due to the virus, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and head to the hospital only if it’s absolutely necessary.

If you don’t experience severe symptoms like severe shortness of breath, new confusion or bluish lips or face, there’s a good chance that you can fully recover at home. We’ve listed some ways to do that below.

Ways to Recover from COVID-19 at Home

• Stay adequately hydrated.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Take over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, when needed.
• As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people and pets in your home.
• If possible, use a separate bathroom in the home.
• Eat meals consisting of vitamins and nutrients.

AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail is here for you during the pandemic and beyond! Visit our urgent care center for any questions or general health concerns.