Our Services / Covid Tests

What are COVID-19 tests?

COVID-19 tests can detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, a highly contagious virus that spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets in the air released when people cough, speak, sneeze, or sing.

In some people, especially older adults and anyone with weakened immune systems, the COVID-19 virus can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health complications.

Zidon Internal Medicine offers viral tests to determine if you have a current infection with the COVID-19 virus. The providers can also test your blood for antibodies that your body makes in defense of the virus to determine if you had a COVID-19 infection in the past.

When should I get COVID-19 tests?

You should schedule COVID-19 testing at Zidon Internal Medicine if you have symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, including:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Persistent fatigue
• Loss of taste or smell
• Shortness of breath

The virus can also cause other symptoms that affect your health in different ways. If you have new symptoms and aren’t sure you need a test, you can call the office to discuss your options.

You also need a COVID-19 test if you come into contact with someone who is positive for the COVID-19 virus. Ideally, you should schedule a test within five days of exposure to lower your risk of spreading it to others.

What happens during COVID-19 tests?

During your COVID-19 test, the Zidon Internal Medicine providers insert a swab into your nose to collect a sample of fluids. This may feel uncomfortable for just a few seconds but shouldn’t be painful. You may feel like you have to sneeze, or your eyes may water.

When your results are ready, they’ll either be positive or negative. If your test is positive, it means you have an infection and should avoid others for at least five days. If you feel short of breath or have other symptoms you can’t manage on your own, seek emergency medical care at the nearest hospital.

If your test results are negative, it means the test didn’t detect the virus. However, this doesn’t mean you don’t have an infection. You should continue to watch for symptoms of COVID-19 and schedule another test if new symptoms develop.

To lower your risk for severe illness and hospitalization due to the COVID-19 virus, you should get vaccinated. Zidon Internal Medicine offers COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters in-office to protect you from acute and long-term health complications.

To schedule an appointment for COVID-19 tests, call Zidon Internal Medicine today or request a consultation online.