COVID-19 Testing Clinic in Bradenton, FL

At Manatee Primary Care, we want our patients to feel informed and supported when it comes to understanding and recognizing symptoms of COVID-19, especially as they can often resemble other common illnesses like the flu or the common cold.

COVID-19 can present with a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. The most common symptoms our patients report include fever, cough, and fatigue. Other possible symptoms are shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell, and muscle aches. Notably, a sudden loss of taste or smell—especially when not accompanied by nasal congestion—is a distinguishing feature of COVID-19, and is less frequently seen with the common cold or influenza.

While influenza and COVID-19 can both cause fever, cough, and body aches, flu symptoms usually start more abruptly, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear more gradually over several days. In addition, gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting are seen more often in COVID-19 than in the flu. The common cold, meanwhile, typically causes milder symptoms such as a runny nose and sore throat, and rarely causes fever or shortness of breath.

Shortness of breath is a concerning symptom that is more common with COVID-19, especially if it worsens. Because COVID-19, flu, and the common cold share many symptoms, the best way to determine the cause of your illness is through medical evaluation and testing.

To help protect yourself, your loved ones, and our community from COVID-19, we encourage all patients and visitors to follow these important preventive measures:

• Wear a Mask When Appropriate: Please wear a mask when visiting Manatee Primary Care if you are experiencing symptoms, have been recently exposed to COVID-19, or if requested by our staff. Masks are also recommended in crowded or enclosed spaces, especially when social distancing is difficult.
• Maintain Physical Distancing: We encourage everyone to keep a safe distance (about six feet) from others in our waiting areas and common spaces whenever possible.
• Stay Home When Sick: If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of COVID-19, please contact us before coming to the office. We can provide guidance on whether an in-person visit is necessary or if a telehealth appointment may be more appropriate.
• Practice Respiratory Etiquette: Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow, and dispose of tissues properly. Wash your hands immediately afterward.
• Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched items like cell phones, doorknobs, and countertops, both at home and when possible in shared spaces.
• Stay Up to Date with Vaccinations: We strongly recommend getting vaccinated and receiving all recommended COVID-19 boosters. If you have questions about the vaccine or would like to schedule your vaccination at Manatee Primary Care, please contact our office.

By following these guidelines, you help protect yourself, fellow patients, and our dedicated healthcare team.

Consider getting tested for COVID-19 if you are experiencing symptoms commonly associated with the virus, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, or body aches. Testing is also important if you have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, even if you are not showing any symptoms.

You may also need a COVID-19 test before traveling, attending large gatherings, or being admitted to certain healthcare facilities, as required by local guidelines or organizational policies. We are committed to providing you with up-to-date guidance and high-quality care to keep you and our community healthy.

The time it takes to receive your results depends on the type of test you choose:

• Rapid Antigen Tests: Results are typically available within 15 to 30 minutes right here in our office. This makes them a convenient option if you need quick answers for work, travel, or peace of mind.
• PCR Tests: Known as the gold standard for accuracy, PCR tests require laboratory processing. PCR test results are usually available within 24 to 72 hours. However, during periods of high demand, it may take a bit longer. We strive to provide updates on your results as soon as they are available.
• At-Home Test Kits: Rapid antigen kits provide results in about 15 to 30 minutes, while PCR kits that need to be mailed to a laboratory may take several days after you send your sample.

If you have questions about your COVID-19 test or want to know when to expect your results, please visit Manatee Primary Care directly. Our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure you get the information you need as quickly as possible. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 6302 Manatee Ave W, Suite D, Bradenton, FL 34209. We serve patients from Bradenton FL, Parrish FL, Bayshore Gardens FL, Memphis FL, South Bradenton FL, Palmetto FL, and surrounding areas.