Since the pandemic, I have tested twice for the virus. The first time was in April 2021, at the peak of allergy season. Honestly, last spring, I thought I was on the verge of death. My allergies were so intense, and I thought the only logical reasoning for the constant headaches, stuffy nose, sore throat, and cough was as a result of COVID. So, I made an appointment to my closest urgent care facility administering COVID tests, and off I went.
When I got to the urgent care, I signed in, had a pleasant conversation with the front desk staff, and was offered both the rapid and PCR tests. One of the tests was provided free, and the other was covered by insurance. That day, I walked outside the medical center knowing that I was COVID negative, and I would need to wait a few days to get the PCR test result. They also examined me by checking my blood pressure and oxygen level and asking health-related questions.
Today, my second time being tested was a little different. The staff was still cordial. However, the moment I shared that I had been exposed, there was a heightened sense of precaution. There was as little interaction with the staff as possible. There was no examination, and the registered nurse stopped by briefly to ask if I had any questions, and I was free to go. They did not even ask to see a copy of my insurance card, which they had asked for last time. Given the shortages of testing available in the state, the option to take both the PCR and rapid test was unavailable. Also, the CNA administering the test, at least I think it was a CNA, tried to gear me to take the rapid test, and I kindly told her no. My preference would have been to take both tests.
Anyway, now it is just a waiting game. Do I have COVID or not? I have been experiencing covid related symptoms the past couple of days. I am hopeful I am over it. If not, I will continue to stay quarantined to protect my family and community.
In the meantime, I started to stock up on rapid covid testing from Amazon, cold/flu medicine, and masks.
