Should I get tested for Covid-19 before Christmas?

Clarity in uncertain times

If we’re planning on seeing our family this Christmas and New Year during the ease of restrictions, what can we do to reassure ourselves and those we’ll be spending time with that we’re not carrying the virus asymptomatically? Christmas is often a time when colds and flu get the chance to spread, and Covid-19 is no different. When we’re indoors with a number of people, eating and drinking, we’re creating the ideal conditions for viruses to circulate. The only way to be confident that you’re not carrying coronavirus is by having a test. This can assure you that you’re free of the virus and won’t be inadvertently passing it on to your loved ones, particularly any who are elderly or vulnerable.

But is this only an issue if you have any kind of symptoms? A dry cough, fever and shortness of breath may be classic symptoms of Covid-19, but we now understand there’s a range of other symptoms and in some people, there are no symptoms at all.

Asymptomatic transmission

One of the strengths the virus has is that large numbers of people are completely asymptomatic, meaning they don’t develop any giveaway symptoms. As a result, they carry on living their lives as before, giving the virus lots of opportunities to spread unhindered. It’s one of the reasons why Covid-19 was able to spread so quickly among university students when they returned after the summer holidays. Being young and relatively healthy, they were less liable to develop symptoms. But it’s not just the young who can be asymptomatic. Older people sometimes show no or few symptoms, perhaps as a result of the viral load they were exposed to, but that doesn’t mean they can’t pass the illness on to other people who may, in turn, become seriously ill.

Testing is available at your local pharmacist in Surrey

At VSM Pharmacy in Camberley, we’re offering quick, accurate antigen and antibody tests to identify Covid-19. It’s part of our service to the local community, giving people the confidence and reassurance they need to enjoy a family Christmas. Following the government guidelines is all-important, and a Covid-19 test can help you act responsibly during the Christmas and New Year period.

Tests can be booked online, and the testing process takes around 12 minutes. Results are quick, and you’ll soon know whether or not you are carrying the virus. Why not book an appointment today and get the reassurance you need to enjoy a happy Christmas?