Across the country, COVID-19 infection rates are on the rise. The medical community continues to learn about the disease, and federal agencies and pharmaceutical companies are getting closer and closer to vaccine approval.
But when will a COVID-19 vaccine be widely available? And what exactly are the symptoms that you should watch out for? What should you do if you or a family member gets COVID-19?
There’s still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, but at Medical Associates of North Texas, we’re here for you. Our doctors, nurses, and support staff are committed to providing safe care to our patients and our office is open.
Along with our commitment to maintaining a high standard of primary care, we’re here to answer your questions about COVID-19.
Recognizing the symptoms of COVID-19
Anyone can get COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Symptoms vary from person to person, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with all the possible symptoms so you can recognize the disease if you get sick.
Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- New loss of taste and/or smell
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Symptoms range from mild to severe. This isn’t an exhaustive list, as the medical community is still learning about COVID-19 and the symptoms it produces in different people. If you’re feeling ill, stay at home and call your doctor to learn more about taking care of yourself.
What to do if you get sick
Staying home, avoiding large groups, and practicing good personal hygiene are the best ways to prevent yourself and your family from getting sick. But even if you’re taking all precautions, it’s possible that you or a family member will develop COVID-19.
Symptoms can develop between 2-14 days after you were exposed to the virus. Most people with mild-to-moderate symptoms can recover at home without medical intervention.
If you have mild-to-moderate symptoms, it’s important to stay home and limit your contact with others (including those who live in your household). But if you experience emergency warning signs, you shouldn’t wait to seek professional medical treatment.
Signs that your condition requires immediate medical care include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Inability to rouse or stay awake
- New confusion
- Blue face or lips
If you or a loved one is showing signs of a life-threatening condition, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
The latest news on COVID-19 vaccinations
The world is waiting for a COVID-19 vaccine. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with several pharmaceutical companies, are working tirelessly to expedite the development and approval of COVID-19 vaccinations.
Several vaccines are in clinical trials, but as of now, no vaccine has been approved. Experts estimate that formulations will be approved and distribution will begin before the end of 2020. The CDC is developing a vaccine distribution plan.
It’s likely that high-risk individuals, such as healthcare workers, other essential workers, and people with pre-existing health conditions, will be the first to get COVID-19 vaccinations when formulations are approved. As more vaccines are manufactured, lower-risk individuals will be able to get vaccinated.
Until COVID-19 vaccinations are widely available, it’s important to practice precautionary measures. Stay at home as much as possible, practice social distancing, and maintain good personal hygiene to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Have more questions about caring for yourself and your family this season? Give our team at Medical Associates of North Texas a call at 972-695-8053 or book a telehealth appointment online now.
