Not long ago, we were all masters of covid math.
Flash forward to late 2024, though, and our COVID math has gotten a little rusty.
How long are we supposed to quarantine if we get a positiveCOVID-19test?
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How long does covid last?
Are new variants still cropping up?
Here are the key things it’s crucial that you know about getting COVID heading into 2025.
Theres a new variant in town.
Santa Claus isnt the only seasonal visitor coming to town.
Technically, its a sub-variant of the omicron strain (yes, omicron is still with us).
You probably wont lose your ability to taste or smell.
The XEC variant also does not appear to cause more severe symptoms.
If you have mild symptoms, you could expect to feel better within a week or two.
Theres no automatic quarantine if you test positive.
In March, the CDC releasednew federal guidelinescovering sars-cov-2 and other respiratory viruses, such as flu and RSV.
If symptoms do eventually develop, stay home and reset the clock until you are 24 hours symptom-free.
Long COVID is less of a risk (but still possible).
Some people may even develophigh blood pressurefollowing a COVID-19 infection.
Both COVID-19 vaccination and treatment with Paxlovid reduce the likelihood that youll develop long COVID.
Updated vaccines came out recently.
They include new versions of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines as well as the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.
you’re able to get your COVID vaccine at the same time as a flu and/or RSV shot.
If youre immunocompromised, your healthcare provider may suggest you get a second dose six months later.
Antiviral treatment is an option.
Gone are the days where there were no medications to address viruses.
Your healthcare provider or a pharmacist can approve you for this treatment.
