If you’re reading this while someone is yelling “Moooooom!” for the 47th time and another child is mysteriously sticky, you’re in the right place. You don’t have time to doom-scroll medical forums—you need the what-do-I-do-now version. As a healthcare-working mom who’s done the school pickup line with a thermometer in my purse, here’s your quick, clear guide on when to stay home, when to head to Integrity Urgent Care, and when it’s ER time.
Quick Take: When urgent care is the right move
- You need a COVID-19 test today (rapid or PCR) or a return-to-school/work note.
- Symptoms are mild-to-moderate, but you want a pro to check lungs, ears, fever, and hydration.
- You or your child might be eligible for antiviral treatment and you’re within the first 5 days of symptoms.
- Your pediatrician can’t get you in, or it’s after hours/weekend. Where to go: Find your nearest clinic or learn more about services.
Common COVID Symptoms (for kids and adults)
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARSCoV2 and spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. Symptoms can show up 2–5 days after exposure and range from “meh” to “please help.”
- Sore throat
- Cough (dry or wet)
- Headache
- Fever and chills
- Body aches and fatigue
- Congestion/runny nose
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (kids get these more often)
- Loss or change of taste/smell (less common now, but still possible) If you need same-day testing or an evaluation, we’ve got you.
Managing COVID at Home: The “keep-them-comfy” plan
Most mild cases resolve in 1–2 weeks. Here’s what helps:
- Fluids, fluids, fluids: Water, electrolyte drinks, ice pops. If your child is too tired to drink much, offer small sips frequently.
- Fever/ache relief: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (check dosing for kids—use weight-based dosing).
- Rest and snuggles: Yes, screen time counts as rest today.
- Humidifier and honey: A cool mist humidifier helps nighttime coughs. For kids over 1 year, a teaspoon of honey can soothe coughs.
- Watch for dehydration: Fewer wet diapers/pee trips, dry lips, no tears when crying, or lethargy = time to be seen. Need a quick note for school or work? We can help with that at your visit.
When to Go to Urgent Care for COVID
Head to Integrity Urgent Care if:
- You need a COVID-19 test to confirm symptoms or for school/work/travel documentation.
- Symptoms are getting worse after a few days, especially fever not improving with meds, persistent cough, or ear pain (ear infections love to crash the party).
- You’re at higher risk for complications (pregnant, chronic conditions, or age 65+) and you’re within 5 days of symptom onset—this is key for antiviral eligibility.
- You need an exam to check breathing, oxygen levels, or hydration.
- Your child looks unwell even if the symptoms seem mild—your gut counts. Integrity Urgent Care offers same-day evaluation, rapid tests, PCR testing, prescription management, return-to-school/work notes, and guidance you can trust.
Can urgent care prescribe antiviral medication?
Often, yes—if you’re eligible and within the first 5 days of symptoms. Not everyone needs antivirals, but for higher-risk patients, they can help reduce the risk of severe illness. Integrity Urgent Care providers will evaluate your risk factors and timing to decide what’s appropriate.
When to Go to the Emergency Room for COVID
Go to the ER or call 911 if you or your child has:
- Severe trouble breathing, gasping, or blue/gray lips or face
- Chest pain or pressure that doesn’t go away
- New confusion, hard-to-wake, or fainting
- Signs of severe dehydration (very dry mouth, no urination, limpness)
- A fever over 103°F that isn’t responding to medication, or any fever in an infant under 3 months If you’re unsure if it’s ER-level, come to urgent care—we’ll assess and direct you to the ER if needed.
Real Mom Moment: The “Is It COVID or Just School Germs?” Question
If your house is like mine, someone always has a sniffle, and you’re playing germ roulette between strep, flu, and “mystery virus from the classroom gerbil.” If symptoms pop up before a big week—class party, travel, Grandma’s visit—swing by for quick testing so you can make a plan and stop the guesswork. We’ll help you figure out what it is and what to do next.
FAQs: COVID and Urgent Care
Can I get a COVID test at urgent care?
Yes. Most Integrity Urgent Care clinics offer COVID-19 testing, including rapid tests (when available) and PCR. Check your nearest clinic for details
Should I go to urgent care if I test positive at home?
If symptoms are mild, home care is often enough. Visit us if symptoms are worsening, you’re high-risk, you need a school/work note, or you want to be evaluated for antivirals. Learn more.
Can urgent care prescribe antiviral medication for COVID?
Yes, if you’re eligible and within 5 days of symptom onset. Our providers will review your health history and symptoms to guide treatment.
Will Integrity Urgent Care give me a return-to-work or school note?
Absolutely. We can provide documentation after evaluating your symptoms and test results.
Can children go to urgent care for COVID symptoms?
Yes. Integrity Urgent Care treats pediatric patients. Call your nearest location to confirm age ranges and services.
What to Expect at Integrity Urgent Care
- Family-friendly care: We get kids, and we provide compassionate care while doing our best to move quickly—because we know patience runs out around minute seven.
- Same-day testing and results guidance: What the result means, what to do next, and when to return to school or work.
- Clear, practical treatment plans: From fever management to hydration tips to prescription decisions.
- Flexible access: Walk in or check for online scheduling.
If you’re juggling lunch boxes, laundry, and a mystery cough, you don’t need to figure this out alone. Integrity Urgent Care is here to help you make quick, confident decisions for your family.
