PHOENIX — If you have reason to believe you have contracted the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, this is what you should do.
Self-diagnose
The CDC issued updated guidelines on April 25 for symptoms to look out for and how the virus is different from the seasonal flu, they include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
Symptoms may develop a few days after contacting someone with coronavirus. There are emergency warning signs for COVID-19, and you should get medical attention immediately if you’re feeling these symptoms:
- Difficulty getting enough air
- Chest pain
- Change in alertness or responsiveness
- Bluish lips or face
- Rapid breathing
If you’re showing symptoms, but it’s not severe, you should call Arizona's medical hotline.
COVID-19 Hotline: 1-844-542-8201
A health expert will provide additional diagnosis and help determine whether or not you need testing.
The state has increased coronavirus testing since the pandemic broke out, with the eventual goal of anyone wishing to get tested may get one.
Your best bet to get tested in Arizona right now is to participate in the state’s new testing initiative.
Research Arizona's “Testing Blitz”
Starting Saturday, May 2, the state’s health department aims to test over 10,000 people for COVID-19 every Saturday for the month of May.
The initiative was only scheduled to last through May 16, but AZDHS announced that it would extend the program for another two weeks and extra testing will be available on May 23 and May 30.
The testing expansion effort will include drive-thru or onsite testing at various locations across the state.
Arizonans will be able to find locations, hours of operation and pre-register at azhealth.gov/TestingBlitz. Testing has greatly expanded throughout the state, but you still aren’t guaranteed one due to demand.
Each testing site will have its own criteria for testing, so be sure to check when you register.
Call your doctor
More testing will be available throughout the week. You should call the hotline or your medical provider to help guide you to a location.
Do not drop in unannounced. Urgent care clinics, hospitals, and doctor’s offices need to prepare for a potential COVID-19 patient.
About 9% of people who are tested for coronavirus have a positive diagnosis, according to the Arizona Department of Health.
