COVID-19  Vaccinations

Valley Healthcare – COVID-19 Nasal Swab Testing and Precautions

The coronavirus outbreak has ushered in a new normal and our team at Valley Healthcare System is here to help. We like to keep our community updated with information, safety precautions and procedures. Communication is part of the value that we provide in our service to you.

On-site clinic for flu and covid vaccines
Please email us for on-site clinic coordination
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Get tested for COVID-19

 If you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms call (706) 587-6090 to schedule a visit for nasal swab testing. Then, you will be screened and evaluated by a VHCS medical provider during your visit. Also, you can get tested at any of our locations. All patients who have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (coronavirus) will be tested.

No insurance? No worries! There is no out-of-pocket charge for self-pay patients, including lab processing. Valley Healthcare covers the cost. Even if you have insurance you can expect to not pay anything out-of-pocket.

Some of the confirmed COVID-19 symptoms include*:

• Cough
• Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing
• Fever
• Chills (can present with repeated shaking)
• Muscle Pain
• Headache
• Sore Throat
• New Loss of Taste or Smell

If you develop any of these emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get emergency medical attention immediately:

• Trouble with Breathing
• Persistent Pain or Pressure in the Chest
• New Confusion or Inability to Arouse
• Blue Color in the Lips or Face

*This list is not all-inclusive. Visit the CDC website for more information on COVID-19 symptoms. Remember when comparing coronavirus vs flu, both viruses have some similar symptoms. Please consult a medical professional if you have any concerns.

Valley Healthcare is happy to offer flu vaccinations to patients in the Chattahoochee Valley area. If you need a flu vaccine, come in during our standard business hours (8:30 AM – 5:30 PM). Call us at (706) 322-9599 with any questions. According to the CDC, all people aged 6 months of age and older are recommended to receive an annual flu vaccination, with rare exceptions. A vaccinated population can help fight the spread of the flu virus.

What is a flu vaccination and how does it work?

A flu vaccination (or flu shot) introduces tiny amounts of different flu viruses to your body. The flu shot triggers an immune system response, which causes your body to fight off the virus. This happens because your body recognizes that the flu viruses should not be there. Your body will produce antibodies approximately two weeks after receiving the flu vaccine.

Benefits of getting a flu shot

• A Flu Vaccination Can Keep You From Catching the Flu (influenza).
• It Can Reduce the Risk of Flu-Related Hospitalization.
• A Flu Shot Can Help Keep Women Healthy During and After Pregnancy.
• It Reduces the Risk of Flu-Related Death in Children.
• It Can Provide Extra Preventative Help to People with Chronic Health Conditions.
• Flu Shots Have Been Shown to Reduce the Severity of the Illness for Those Who Still Get the Flu After Getting the Vaccination.
• It Helps Protect Others Around You and Reduces the Risk of Spreading the Virus.

Things to consider before you get a flu vaccine

• People Who Are Not Feeling Well (Including Flu-Like Symptoms) Should Discuss Their Symptoms with Their Primary Care Physician Before Getting a Flu Shot.
• Children Younger Than 6 Months of Age Should Not Get a Flu Vaccination.
• Individuals with Severe Allergies to Any Ingredients in Flu Vaccines Should Consult Their Primary Care Physician Before Getting a Flu Shot.
• Individuals Who Have Ever Had Guillain-Barré Syndrome Should Consult Their Primary Care Physician Before Getting a Flu Shot.

Flu and COVID-19 co-morbidity

The possibility of concurrent influenza and COVID-19 epidemics is a major concern for healthcare professionals. This makes getting a flu shot even more critical during these times.

Though flu and COVID-19 may have similar symptoms and can both be contracted through airborne droplets, it’s important to note that the management approaches for the viruses are different.

Get your flu shot at our three locations.