COVID-19 Information

When should you get tested for COVID-19?

• If you have symptoms, test immediately.
• Consider testing before contact with someone at high risk for severe COVID-19, especially if you are in an area with a medium or high COVID-19 community level.

At Phelps Health, we are able to test patients for COVID-19 at our Walk-In Clinics in Rolla and Waynesville. No appointment necessary. Open 7 days a week. You also can contact your primary care provider for COVID-19 testing.

Reminder: Always call your primary care physician or provider first if you suspect you may have COVID-19. Your doctor’s office may be able to help.

COVID-19 At-Home Tests: COVID-19 at-home test kits are available for purchase at local pharmacies. If your at-home test shows that you are positive for COVID-19, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for treatment options.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

According to the CDC, reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness. The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

What can you do to reduce your risk of getting COVID-19?

Follow CDC guidelines for prevention, which include:

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
  • People who qualify to receive the COVID vaccine this 2025-2026 season include:
    • Those aged 65 or older
    • Those 6 months or older and have at least one high-risk health condition
• Practice good hygiene
• Improve ventilation and filtration indoors.
• Move indoor activities outdoors, when possible. Viral particles spread more easily indoors than outdoors.
• Get tested for COVID-19, if needed.
• Stay home when you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Seek treatment if you have COVID-19 and are at high risk of getting severely sick.
• Avoid contact with people who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• You also may want to wear a mask as well as avoid crowded areas and keep distance between yourself and others.