COVID-19 Testing Services
Urgent Care & Family Medicine of Nebraska is proud to offer COVID-19 testing to patients in our communities. At this time, we are capable of providing the following:
Nasal swab COVID-19 test (sample sent to separate lab for analysis)
In-house rapid COVID-19 antibody test
COVID-19 Antigen testing
Please contact your local clinic location for our current lab results timeline for the COVID-19 nasal swab. Contact your preferred location to schedule an appointment today.
Types of COVID-19 Tests We Offer
If you believe you may currently be infected with COVID-19, please contact your local clinic location prior to visiting for more information regarding proper protocol for receiving a test.
Molecular COVID-19 Nasal Swab Test
This particular test would be performed if we suspect a current COVID-19 infection (SARS-CoV-2). A sample is collected by using a deep nasal swab. A positive result would indicate virus RNA was found, meaning you have an active COVID-19 infection.
COVID-19 Antigen Test
Much like the molecular test, the antigen test is detecting the presence of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) virus particles. The sample is again collected by using a deep nasal swab. A positive result indicates that viral particles were found and you have an active COVID-19 infection.
COVID-19 Antibody Test
The antibody test is used to determine if you have potentially been exposed to COVID-19 previously and your body has created an immune response against it. A blood draw is collected and analyzed to determine if you have antibodies present, indicating prior exposure to the virus. This test should not be performed until at least two to three weeks after symptoms have resolved, as it does take time for antibodies to develop. Our clinics can perform rapid antibody testing with the use of a quick and simple finger poke, and your results are provided in as little as 10 minutes.
It is important to note, however, that the presence of antibodies does not necessarily indicate immunity to COVID-19, so continued practice of recommended safety precautions is advised.
COVID-19 vs. Influenza Symptoms
The symptoms of COVID-19 and influenza are quite similar, making it potentially difficult for healthcare workers to determine which virus the patient may have based on symptoms alone. With both COVID-19 and the flu, symptoms may include:
Fever or Chills
Muscle or body aches
Congestion or runny nose
Cough
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Sore Throat
Diarrhea
In both of these illnesses, it is possible to experience no symptoms (asymptomatic) or have very severe symptoms. While they can be quite similar, they do share a few differences, but the biggest symptom that could indicate COVID-19 is a change or loss of taste or smell.
Unfortunately, the only way to truly know which virus you may have is to have proper diagnostic testing performed. During flu season, this may mean you will require both a flu and COVID-19 test be administered, both of which can be done at our clinic locations.