In the past several months, COVID-19 restrictions have been eased throughout the world due to a mass distribution of vaccines. It is, however, still important to recognize the signs when it is necessary to get tested. Even those who are fully vaccinated are still at risk of getting sick. Staying up to date with your health status can help protect others and prevent an outbreak in your area.

Our team of healthcare professionals at Phoenix Medical & Wellness Clinic have the tools to provide quick, convenient COVID testing in Houston. Below we have listed five signs that tell you when it is time to find a COVID testing center in your area.

1. You are experiencing symptoms

Perhaps the most obvious reason to seek out a test is when you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of smell or taste, cold and flu-like symptoms, and more. If you are feeling ill, a quick antigenic test at your local testing facility should be enough to reveal an existing case.

2. You are surrounded by immunocompromised people

Whether you work in a medical facility or you regularly care for a loved one who suffers from a chronic health condition, getting a COVID test is an excellent way to protect the people around you. Many young, healthy individuals disregard the severity of the virus based on their own resilience. However, even those who are fully vaccinated can become seriously ill if they are affected by COVID-19. If you plan on interacting with an immunocompromised person in the upcoming weeks, COVID testing at our Houston lab is a great preventative measure to take.

3. You have recently been to a crowded event

Over the past few years, we have seen just how easily COVID-19 spreads between groups. With countless outbreaks stemming from crowded events like concerts or festivals, it is important to remain cautious as these types of events re-emerge. Many organizations are now operating at full capacity, without the use of masks or mandatory proof of vaccination. Therefore, seeking out a COVID test in the days following one of these events is an excellent way to ensure you do not spread the virus to others.

4. You are planning a trip

While many countries have lifted COVID-19 restrictions for travelers, there are still certain regions that demand proof of a negative test in order to enter the territory. If you require a test to return to your place of origin, we recommend taking a test before your trip to ensure you do not get stuck in a foreign city. Furthermore, whether you are traveling by bus, train, or air, chances are you will probably be surrounded by people in a small space throughout your journey. If this is the case, getting tested ensures you do not infect your fellow travelers in transit.

5. Someone you know has recently tested positive

If you have recently come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it is very likely that you could have been affected by the virus. If you are fully vaccinated, you may not develop any obvious symptoms, however you could be carrying the virus and passing it on to other people. For this reason, it should be taken seriously any time someone in your social circle reports a positive test. Upon receiving this news, getting a COVID test should be your first course of action.

Are you due for a COVID test? At Phoenix Medical & Wellness Clinic, our team has access to an on-site lab with various forms of COVID testing in Houston. Contact us today to schedule a COVID test at our facility.