COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 testing is an essential tool for detecting and preventing the spread of the infectious virus. The providers at Ocean Urgent Care in Lawndale, California, offer COVID-19 and RSV testing, flu shots, and other preventive screenings and immunizations to identify and treat viral illnesses. Call the clinic today or schedule an appointment online to schedule a COVID test.

What is COVID-19 testing?

COVID-19 testing is a method of diagnosing the type of coronavirus that causes the infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing for anyone showing symptoms of the infection. You should also consider getting tested if you come in contact with someone else who tests positive for the virus.

The providers at Ocean Urgent Care offer comprehensive COVID testing for everyone ages four and older.

When should I get COVID-19 testing?

You should always get tested if you’ve had close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID within the last two weeks. Your doctor may also recommend COVID-19 testing if you’re showing symptoms of the infection, such as:

• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Lost sense of taste or smell
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

COVID-19 can also lead to conjunctivitis, or pink eye, a highly contagious infection that develops in the membrane that covers the eye and inner eyelid.

What happens during COVID-19 testing?

During COVID-19 testing, your provider at Ocean Urgent Care collects a nasal swab. They insert the swab into one nostril and twirl for several seconds before performing the same test in the other nostril. There are two types of COVID tests your provider may use:

Viral tests

Also called RT-PCR tests, these tests check for the virus’s genetic materials. While viral tests are typically the most accurate, whether you show symptoms or not, they can take up to a week to produce results.

Antigen tests

An antigen test, or rapid test, detects proteins on the surface of the sample. They’re usually accurate, particularly if you’re showing symptoms, and offer results within one day.

What happens after COVID-19 testing?

If you test negative for COVID-19 and still show symptoms, your provider may perform a flu test. They may also test for respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). Your provider recommends getting an annual flu shot regardless of your results.

You should self-isolate if you test positive for COVID-19. If your symptoms worsen, your provider may recommend urgent care or emergency services.

Call Ocean Urgent Care today or schedule an appointment online for fast, accurate COVID-19 testing.