And smart tips for when to bring them in (or not!) With school back in session, kids share books, pencils…and unfortunately, germs. The good news? A little preparation and knowing when to seek care keeps your family a step ahead.
Quick answer: Integrity Urgent Care offers same-day testing for strep, flu, COVID-19, and RSV with walk-ins welcome. We’re open daily and in-network with most major insurances. If your child has a fever >24 hours, worsening cough that disrupts sleep, sore throat or ear pain, or symptoms lasting beyond 3 days, come see us.
Your Health Game Plan (Simple Steps That Work)
- Hand hygiene: It’s still the #1 game-changer. Encourage 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after recess, before meals, and after coughing/sneezing.
- Sleep consistency: Same bedtime and wake-up time support stronger immunity and quicker recovery when bugs strike.
- Early intervention: That “just tired” feeling, new sore throat, or cough deserves attention, especially during peak cold/flu season.
When to Bring Them In (and When to Watch & Wait)
Bring your child to urgent care if they have:
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours (or any fever in infants under 3 months seek immediate medical evaluation)
- Persistent or worsening cough that interferes with sleep or breathing
- Sore throat (especially with fever, swollen glands, or pain when swallowing)
- Ear pain or drainage
- Any symptoms lasting beyond 3 days or getting worse instead of better
- Dehydration signs: fewer wet diapers/urinations, dry mouth, no tears when crying, dizziness
It’s reasonable to watch & wait at home for 24 hours if symptoms are mild (low-grade fever, runny nose, occasional cough, playful between naps). Keep up fluids, rest, and fever management per pediatric guidance. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you decide.
Dr. Hill’s pro tip: “Trust your parent instincts. You know your child better than anyone. When something feels off, it’s worth having it checked out.”
What We Test (Same Day)
We offer rapid testing during your visit and, when appropriate, confirmatory PCR:
- Strep throat (rapid strep test) for sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils, or tender neck glands
- Influenza A/B (rapid flu test) for sudden fever, chills, body aches, cough
- COVID-19 (rapid antigen; PCR when indicated) for fever, sore throat, cough, fatigue
- RSV (rapid test; PCR when indicated) for wheezing, persistent cough, increased work of breathing especially in infants and toddlers
Results are typically available during the same visit, so you can leave with a clear plan.
Urgent Care vs. ER: How to Decide
Choose urgent care for most sore throats, fevers, coughs, ear pain, and suspected strep/flu/RSV/COVID especially when you need same-day testing and treatment without the ER cost.
Head to the ER or call 911 for severe breathing difficulty, blue/gray lips, severe dehydration, confusion, stiff neck with high fever, or if your infant under 3 months has a fever (100.4°F / 38°C or higher).
What to Expect at Integrity Urgent Care
- Triage & exam: We review symptoms, exposure, medical history, and school/daycare needs.
- Targeted testing: Rapid swabs for strep/flu/RSV/COVID as clinically indicated; PCR if needed.
- Treatment plan: Guidance on hydration, fever care, symptom relief, and when antibiotics or antivirals are appropriate.
- School notes & return-to-play: We’ll provide documentation aligned with local policies and your child’s recovery.
Prevention That Actually Helps (Without Overcomplicating It)
- Hands > sanitizer: Soap and water first; sanitizer on-the-go.
- Don’t share water bottles or utensils during sports and school.
- Cover coughs/sneezes with tissue or elbow.
- Stay home when feverish and follow your school’s policy and provider guidance on return (commonly fever-free 24 hours without medication for flu-like illness).
- Stay current on vaccinations as recommended by your child’s provider.
Insurance, Hours, and Access
- Walk-ins welcome. No appointment needed.
- Open every day.
- In network with most major insurances; self-pay options available.
- Questions about coverage? Call your nearest clinic we’re happy to help.
Integrity Urgent Care. Less Wait. Less Cost. More Care. Find a clinic near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if it’s strep or just a virus?
Only a strep test can confirm. Clues for strep include sudden sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, and swollen neck glands often without cough or runny nose. Read more: Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Strep Throat
Are rapid tests accurate?
Rapid tests are useful for quick answers. In some cases, your provider may recommend a confirmatory PCR to guide the best treatment.
Can you test toddlers and school-age kids?
Yes. We test infants, toddlers, and older children when appropriate. If your infant under 3 months has a fever, seek immediate medical evaluation.
How fast will we get results?
In most cases, during the visit, so you can leave with a clear plan and school note if needed.
Do you accept my insurance?
We’re in network with most major plans. Call your nearest clinic and we’ll confirm benefits before your visit.
