All patients must see our physician before receiving COVID-19 (Coronavirus) PCR testing.

COVID-19-related visits include a physician evaluation and a PCR test, which is the most accurate test available. The PCR test is billed to your insurance by the outside lab and results are typically available in 2-4 days.

A Quidel Rapid Antigen COVID-19 test (results in 15 minutes) may be added on the same day as a physician visit for a cash-pay price of $75.

The Rapid Antigen cash-pay price for asymptomatic patients who are uninsured or need testing for travel or employment is $100.

There is a $25 cash-pay price for the blood draw for an Antibody Test. Check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover the lab cost.

What Is the Difference Between a Cold and COVID-19?

What Is the Difference Between a Cold and COVID-19? Tampa FLAs the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, you might now think twice about cold symptoms you once would have considered just a tolerable nuisance and nothing more. It’s true that the novel coronavirus and the common cold are both contagious respiratory viruses that share many of the same symptoms. Unlike a run-of-the-mill cold, however, COVID-19 can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening complications, so it’s vital to know the difference. That way, you can take appropriate steps to recover from your illness and avoid infecting others.

The only way to know for sure that you are (or previously were) infected with COVID-19 is to be tested by a medical professional. With that said, here is some general information to help you better distinguish between the symptoms of a cold vs. COVID-19:

The Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)

A brand-new strain of coronavirus, COVID-19 is spreading quickly throughout the world. The illness affects different people in different ways, and its long-term effects are not yet fully understood. Some people remain completely unaware that they are infected, while others experience only mild symptoms. However, certain individuals have a heightened risk of developing severe complications of COVID-19, such as pneumonia and respiratory distress. Those who are especially at risk include older adults and anyone who has an underlying health condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease.

The symptoms of COVID-19 can include:

  • A low-grade fever and chills
  • A persistent dry cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • A sore throat
  • A new loss of taste or smell

The Common Cold

While a cold can make you feel miserable, it is most likely harmless and your symptoms should go away within 7-10 days. As your body’s immune system fights off the infection, you may experience:

  • Fever
  • Nasal congestion or a runny nose
  • A mild cough
  • Sneezing
  • A sore throat
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue

It’s important to note that a cold can trigger an asthma attack that leads to shortness of breath, but it will not cause shortness of breath on its own (although COVID-19 can).

If you are experiencing COVID-19 or cold symptoms, contact South Tampa Immediate Care. Our experienced team will get to the bottom of your illness so we can help you feel better faster. In addition to offering COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid antigen testing, we also offer COVID-19 antibody testing to detect a past COVID-19 infection. Your health and safety are our top priorities. Stop by today!