COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is a virus that was discovered in 2019.

Symptoms for COVID-19 vary per person and the illness can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms are fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, body aches, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell.

This virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets whenever an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. If you were in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or you are experiencing any symptoms, consider scheduling a COVID-19 test.

Staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and boosters is one of the most effective ways to avoid severe illness from COVID-19.

COVID-19 Testing and Vaccines at UT Health RGV

REQUEST A COVID-19 TEST

REQUEST A COVID-19 VACCINE OR BOOSTER

VIEW COVID-19 VACCINE LOCATIONS

Symptoms

Symptoms for COVID-19 may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Be mindful of the following:

Cough
Fever
Chills
Congestion
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing
Sore throat
Fatigue
Body aches
Headaches
Nausea
Loss of taste
Loss of smell

Testing

When considering a test for COVID-19, here is what you need to know:

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should test immediately.

If you were exposed to COVID-19 but do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 days after your exposure before testing.
There are different types of COVID-19 tests available, such as rapid antigen tests and PCR-based tests. It’s important to know which test is right for your circumstance.

Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at preventing severe illness from COVID-19. Know the following:

The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

COVID-19 boosters help restore protection against the virus and provide broader protection against newer variants.
Even if you’ve had COVID-19, you should still get vaccinated for added protection.