What Can I Do to Limit My Risk of COVID-19?

You might think, based on the fact that businesses are reopening, that COVID-19 is less of a risk these days. But the reality is: It’s still a real and present danger to our health.

In fact, cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in our country and state. As of July 2, there have been 2.74 million cases diagnosed in the United States, with more than 46,000 of those cases in Tennessee alone.

That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna wants to share some insight about how to protect yourself and others.

Am I at Risk of COVID-19?

Yes. Every person of every age, gender and race is at risk of developing COVID-19, which is a type of the coronavirus.

The virus spreads via airborne particles, which are emitted into the air when an infected person sneezes, coughs or even breathes. This can happen regardless of whether a person exhibits symptoms or not.

Those at Highest Risk of COVID-19

  • Those who are obese
  • Those who have a chronic medical condition
  • Those who have compromised immune systems
  • Older adults

What Is Social Distancing?

You’ve heard the phrase “social distancing” hundreds of times since the COVID-19 pandemic began, but you may not have a good understanding of what it is. To really understand it, consider it as physical distancing.

To maintain social distance and limit the spread of COVID-19, you need to keep at least six feet between yourself and others in public. That’s approximately the height of your refrigerator, the length of two shopping carts or the width of the average car.

Other Ways to Limit the Spread of COVID-19

  • Stay home as much as possible.
  • Steer clear of large gatherings and crowds.
  • If age 2 or older, wear a cloth face covering over your nose and mouth in public.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands.
  • Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

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 Smyrna website to learn more or to schedule a testing appointment.