The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe. Some of the most common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is best to get tested for COVID-19 at your local testing center. Visit this website to find where you can get a COVID-19 test in BC:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3862560c5a41418e9d78f4f81688e9d0
The symptoms people experience with COVID-19 are similar to how we feel when we have a flu, cold or even allergies. Having symptoms does NOT guarantee that you have COVID.
However, if you feel sick, it is important that you stay home, away from others, continue to wear a mask and sanitize frequently to prevent the spread of germs. It is best to continue monitoring your symptoms and to see a healthcare provider if they get worse.
Guidelines vary by province and country, but BC is currently in Step 3 of the reopening plan. This means that it is currently safe to do things such as hold personal indoor/outdoor gatherings, go to restaurants or gyms. For more information on what is allowed in Step 3 of BC’s reopening plan, please visit the following website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restart
In some cases, serious symptoms of COVID-19 may include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, inability to stay awake or pale/blue skin or lips. Even if you are unsure if you have COVID, seek immediate emergency care by calling 911 or going to the hospital if you experience any of these symptoms or are in medical distress.
Most people who get COVID-19 are able to recover at home. It is important to stay away from others in your household and even try to use a different washroom. During this time, continue to take care of yourself by maintaining proper hygiene, getting rest and staying hydrated. You can also take medication such as Tylenol or Advil to help with symptoms.
After 10 days of first having symptoms, it is okay to be around others if your symptoms have gone away completely and you have not had a fever in the past 24 hours.
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, so it is important that you self-isolate at home, away from others and continue monitoring your symptoms for 10 days after your last contact with the person who had COVID-19. You do not need to get tested unless you develop symptoms within 14 days after your last exposure.
In indoor spaces it is important to wear a mask over your mouth and nose to reduce the spread of germs. It is equally helpful to continue washing your hands frequently with soap, using hand sanitizer and disinfecting any high-contact surfaces such as doorknobs or counters. In addition, you should try to avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces.
Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways in reducing your risk of infection and the severity of the illness. Learn more about registering for your vaccine in BC here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register
None of the vaccines can make you sick with COVID-19. The vaccines are proven to be safe and effective in reducing your chances of getting sick, experiencing severe illness and spreading the virus to others.
It is normal to experience side effects for a few days after receiving your first or second dose of the vaccine. Some people experience no side effects and others may have soreness, redness, swelling and itchiness where the vaccine was given. Other reactions may include tiredness, headache, fever, chills, muscle or joint soreness, swollen lymph nodes under the armpit, nausea and vomiting. These reactions are mild and generally last 1 to 2 days. To help with the pain or fever, it is fine to take over-the-counter medication such as Advil or Tylenol after receiving your vaccination.
In rare cases, more serious complications have been reported after getting various vaccines. If your side effects persist or worsen for more than a few days contact your healthcare provider.
Yes, vaccines and certain health measures are still helpful for protecting yourself and others even if you’ve already had COVID-19.
Current research shows that vaccines are still highly effective in reducing the risk of infection to the Delta variant. You will receive the most protection two weeks after getting your second dose.
Yes, the vaccine is seen to still be safe and effective in those who use both recreational and illegal drugs. However, it is not recommended to be high or under the influence of drugs/alcohol at your vaccine appointment because it may impair your ability to provide informed consent to your healthcare provider and communicate any questions or concerns you may have.
COVID-19 spreads when an individual infected with COVID-19 breathes out droplets and particles containing the virus and another person nearby breathes them in. Another way of spread is when droplets and particles containing the virus land on your eyes, nose, or mouth (such as when an infected individual coughs/sneezes nearby). Furthermore, touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with hands that have the virus on them can result in infection.