COVID safety measures amid summer spike in cases

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It’s not behind us yet. A rise of COVID infections began in early June, and cases are still rising.

The latest data from the CDC shows high levels of the virus in wastewater data in almost every state. With more tests coming back positive, it’s important to take necessary measures to protect yourself and others.

Current CDC guidelines say you should test for COVID-19 if you develop any symptoms of the virus, or on day-six following exposure to someone who has tested positive.

If you require a test, PCR tests are administered by a medical provider in retail pharmacies, urgent care centers, community health centers and primary care offices. Rapid antigen at-home tests can be also purchased at your local pharmacy, retail stores or online.

If you do test positive, the most important thing is to isolate. Staying home helps protect others from getting sick, especially those who are high-risk. The CDC recommends staying home for five days. If you have no symptoms after those five days, you may gradually resume normal activity.

You should, however, continue to isolate until you are fever-free for 24-hours without taking any fever reducing medications. To be safe experts recommend:

• Wearing a mask around others for at least five days
• Wash your hands often
• Avoid crowded indoor spaces
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

For a complete list of CDC guidelines and how to protect from COVID-19, click here.

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