COVID Testing Clinic in Mineola and Melville, NY

With the numerous types of COVID-19 tests available, every person can get tested. Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, most medical conditions should not interfere with testing. It is important that everyone can receive testing because it helps reduce the spread of the virus. When someone tests positive for COVID-19, they can self-isolate at home, or if necessary, at a hospital. Testing also tells us who has the infection, where the infection is spreading and how much the virus is circulating.

The effects COVID-19 has on different people can vary significantly. While most people who get infected develop only mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization, others especially the elderly and those with an underlying medical condition, can develop severe symptoms that require hospitalization, in some cases, life support. The incubation period (the time it takes for the infection to start developing symptoms) is an average of 5 to 6 days, although it can take up to 14 days in some cases.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Tiredness

Less common symptoms associated with COVID-19 include:

• Sore throat
• Aches and pains
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis
• Loss of taste or smell
• Skin rash, or discoloration of fingers or toes

Serious symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Loss of speech or movement

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. People who are otherwise healthy and are only experiencing mild symptoms are encouraged to manage their symptoms at home.

A rapid test, also known as an antigen test, detects protein segments unique to the Coronavirus. It can be performed in a variety of healthcare settings, from a doctor’s office to a hospital. These tests are convenient due to their simplicity and quick results. A PCR test is very different and detects the genetic material of the virus known as RNA. While it is more accurate than a rapid test, results take much longer. PCR tests can also be performed in several environments, from a healthcare facility to your vehicle.

Rapid testing results are true to their name and are available within 15 minutes of testing. If a test comes back positive, it is likely to be confirmed with a PCR test, unless symptoms are visible.

PCR testing is considered the gold standard for COVID-19 tests with result turnaround in about two to three days, although they can be available in as short as 24 hours, or take as long as a few weeks, depending on the volume of current tests.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, trust the professionals at Northeast Primary Care to provide you with a higher level of care. We provide COVID-19 testing to ensure that you and your family are healthy. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Mineola NY, Melville NY, Westbury NY, Floral Park NY, Uniondale NY, Hicksville NY, Wyandanch NY, South Huntington NY, and BEYOND!