![a doctor holds a covid test](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Why-and-When-to-be-Tested-for-COVID-19--300x210.jpeg)
Why and When to be Tested for COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2 also known as COVID-19 may be one of the most common conversation points in recent memory. The information has been evolving and changing so rapidly, it is difficult to keep well informed on the topic. This has been challenging to the general public as well as to the healthcare community. The spread of this novel virus has been rapid, particularly in the heavily populated urban centers. However, at present there are few communities that have not had at least a few cases of COVID-19 identified. As a provider at Integrity Urgent Care, I want to address the question of why to be tested and its importance to not only each individual, but also your community.
![a woman applies sunscreen](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Unseen-Effects-of-the-Sun--300x210.jpeg)
The Unseen Effects of the Sun
Bright and sunny days are ahead, and our team at Integrity Urgent Care loves seeing people enjoying the great outdoors. Armed with extra water, some healthy snacks, and a plan for exercise, play, or even relaxation, your local parks, front yard, sidewalks, or other outdoor spot can be a great place to spend time. It is important we remember than the sun can have damaging effects on our bodies and to be aware how to be careful under those bright rays.
![a woman is stressed out on her couch](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Mental-Health-What-to-Look-For--300x210.jpeg)
Mental Health: What to Look For
Under the best circumstances, caring for and learning more about mental health is a good idea. Add in extra stressors, whether local, global, or both, and paying attention to fluctuations and changes in your mental health is imperative to staying healthy. Knowing some of the signs and concerns about different mental health issues and changes can assist in heading things off or getting the help you need to stay healthy.
![a man is tested for covid from his car](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Is-it-Safe-to-Come-to-Integrity-Urgent-Care_--300x210.jpeg)
Is it Safe to Come to Integrity Urgent Care?
Kyle is out of insulin for his insulin pump. He is scared to go to a medical facility for fear of being exposed to the Coronavirus. Ella has had painful urination for the past week, and now has back pain and nausea. She is concerned she has a urinary tract infection, but she too is nervous to go to the doctor’s office. These are common scenarios during this time of pandemic fears. Is it safe to go to the urgent care center? This is an important question. The answer is complex.
![a brain shaped puzzle](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Boost-Your-Mental-Health-With-These-8-Tips--300x252.jpeg)
Boost Your Mental Health With These 8 Tips
We applaud the efforts and strides being made to increase mental health awareness in our communities around the globe. Mental health is a vital component of overall health and one that has long been ignored. In fact, the more we discuss and talk about it, in person, through articles, and in other forms of media, the better we can help one another and understand our journeys. Each one of us has scenarios where we can use a mental boost, whether from stress of illness, current events, job circumstances, or a little bit of everything weighing down at once. Integrity Urgent Care is here to help protect your physical and mental wellness with these tips.
![a doctor tests a vial for covid](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Our-Current-Response-to-COVID-19-1-1-300x200.jpeg)
Our Current Response to Covid-19 (Updated April 22nd)
Our doctors, nurses, and staff entered the medical field to help people, both those in our community and any others who reach our clinic doors. The care that we provide looks different for everyone, and we are always adapting to meet the needs of those we serve. As our communities navigate COVID-19, we continue to be ready to treat our patients and to provide accurate and up-to-date information about this virus.
![A young boy has been stung by a bee](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Bug-bites-and-Bee-Stings-and-Poison-Ivy-Oh-My--300x210.jpeg)
Bug bites and Bee Stings and Poison Ivy, Oh My!
Looking on the sunny side of the times we are living in would be to acknowledge the number of families spending time outside, safely exploring parks, lounging in their backyards, and taking long walks together. With summer weather upon us, the time spent outdoors will come with a few ailments to look out for. Rather than deter our time outside, Integrity Urgent Care is ready to teach you how to be ready!
![Doctor with sign reading 'boost your immune system](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/7-Ways-to-Boost-Your-Immune-System--300x210.jpeg)
7 Ways to Boost Your Immune System
Building immunity, staying healthy, and preventing illness are at the forefront of everyone’s mind right now. Whether we are trying to keep ourselves, kids, relatives, communities, or some combination safe many are looking for actions we can take now. While we don’t have control over every aspect of the environment and the way illnesses are spread, there are steps we can take to give our bodies and systems the best chance to preventing or beating something we may catch.
![Up close hands washing](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/How-to-Not-Spread-Germs--300x210.jpeg)
How to Not Spread Germs
In a time when most of our conversations are steered around viruses and the way they are spread, we may feel there isn’t a lot we can do to avoid getting sick. However, there are a number of steps we can take to prevent catching any virus or spreading it to others.
![a woman sneezes in front of a tree](https://integrityuc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/First-Aid-Handbook-Allergic-Reactions--300x210.jpeg)
First Aid Handbook: Allergic Reactions
The word allergies seems to be around us wherever we go, from kid lunches to labels on food to people finding excuses for their sniffles and sneezes, allergies are to blame. However allergies, and the ways they manifest can vary greatly from person to person and even vary greatly in the same person, depending on the stimulus.