COVID-19 Updates: Schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, find information on testing, our updated visitor policy, the Omicron variant and more.

COVID-19 Resources

There is no doubt that the world has changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We promise that the quality of care you have come to expect from Westmed will never change. We are here for you.

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COVID-19 Resources
 

We Are Here For You.

There is no doubt that the world has changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We promise that the quality of care you have come to know and expect at Westmed will never change. We are here for you.

An FAQ: What to Know About Omicron
Last Updated: January 10, 2022

Omicron is the latest coronavirus virus variant and the dominant strain in the United States. Highly transmissible, Omicron is rapidly increasing COVID-19 cases. While cases have surged, severe illness and deaths have stayed comparatively low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The latest wave of the coronavirus pandemic may hit its peak in the U.S. by the end of January and turn around quickly.

Research suggests that Omicron may cause less damage to the lungs, causing milder disease than previous versions of the coronavirus. For most people who are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, Omicron results in mild illness that can resemble the common cold, another form of the coronavirus. Variants like Omicron are a natural part of the progression of the virus, and new variants will continue to emerge.

Based on symptoms alone, it’s probably difficult to discern between Omicron and Delta. But there are some subtle symptom differences between the variants. Common symptoms of both variants include:  

Omicron

Delta
  • Mild cough
  • Scratchy throat
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Congestion and runny nose
     
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Possible shortness of breath (especially in unvaccinated individuals)
Also, it is flu season and other viral and bacterial infections are circulating. Coronavirus and influenza co-infections (“flurona”) are reported as the highly contagious Omicron variant surges. Know there are similarities and differences between flu and COVID-19.

Experts say that given the significant community spread, most people are likely to get infected with Omicron, even those who are vaccinated and boosted. While post-vaccinated infection is possible, COVID-19 vaccines have remained effective at protecting against severe disease, hospitalization, and death.

COVID-19 testing is unlikely to have any clinical benefits for people with mild illness. During a period of extremely high demand and transmission, health officials are asking people to help maximize the benefits of COVID-19 testing and avoid straining the health care system. If you are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, you can presume you have the infection. Most people with mild illness resembling the common cold can recover at home. Follow the CDC’s isolation and quarantine recommendations for the public. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention from your health care provider.

The CDC has updated isolation and quarantine recommendations for the public. If you are sick:

Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.

The CDC recommends these steps to reduce your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19:

  • Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can when eligible. People 5 years old and over are currently eligible.
  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth.
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from people who don’t live with you.
  • Avoid crowded areas and poorly ventilated spaces.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO and CDC websites. Take advantage of Westmed’s self-service options for scheduling and other service needs, which include online booking, and our online patient portal.

Common Symptoms of COVID-19

COVID-19 can affect everyone in different ways and symptoms have varying levels of severity. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms could have COVID-19 and it’s a good idea for them to schedule an appointment with their doctor to determine the appropriate next steps for care:

  • Cough
  • Fever or chills
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Headache
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

COVID or Flu?

 

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Check out this helpful guide to help you determine what the symptoms you are experiencing might indicate, but remember to call your provider and communicate any health concerns you have.

Reduce Your Risk

The latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers guidance on how to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy, and lower your risk of infection. There are actions you can take today to help stop the spread of coronavirus:

  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others outside of your immediate family
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a mask when you are around others, especially in a public setting and when social distancing measures are difficult to maintain
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or sanitize your hands using an alcohol-based sanitizer
  • Stay out of situations where you know there will be a large crowd or group of unmasked people
  • Stay home if you are sick and encourage family members to do the same
  • Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow

For more information on COVID-19 disease prevention, visit the CDC website.

Learn more about how we are keeping you safe:

 

*If you are unable to reserve a spot online at our Urgent Care Centers, please visit your nearest Westmed Urgent Care location and our team will provide you with the next available spot.

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