From the beginning of the pandemic, AFC Urgent Care was one of the first to the Hickory, NC market with rapid COVID-19 testing, and care for sick patients. Our clinics jumped into action to provide care immediately with setting up triage tents, screening facilities, infrastructure modifications, protocol changes, PPE, rapid testing investments, and much more. The AFC team spent countless hours working overtime, researching the virus, and networking with hospitals and care units to provide relief and care.

With over 250,000 cases and 1,409 deaths in Mecklenburg County, this area has been hit hard. The Queen City of Charlotte, NC is home to famous festivals, recreational activities, restaurants, and art galleries. Many of these public venues have taken a hit in decreased populations and cancelled events over the past couple years. As we start to see our beloved multi-cultural city come back to life, it is important to remember precautions to keep her healthy and vibrant!

COVID-19 Precautions:

AFC Urgent Care is ready to see Charlotte, NC back to its roots of celebrating life with friends and family. Here are a few precautions to consider while we are still living with COVID-19.

• Distance as much as possible. COVID-19 is known to spread rapidly with close contact through respiratory droplets. Allowing distance between you and others, will add a layer of protection against catching the virus.
• When in tight quarters, wear a mask. Preferably a N95 mask, worn tightly around your face.
• Wash your hands on a regular basis and avoid touching your face.
• Disinfect areas where multiple people have been.
• Avoid public if you are displaying any COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 Symptoms to watch for:

Charlotte, NC is known for business, finance, and technology; continuing to top the charts as best places to work and grow a business. It is also known for its lively events, from the NFL Carolina Panthers, the NBA Charlotte Hornets, to the epicenter of Nascar at the Nascar Hall of Fame. As Charlotteans start to engage in more social events, and head back into the office, it is important to keep a close eye on the following symptoms should they occur.

Be on the lookout for these symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath
• GI Issues (we are starting to see more of this)
• Body Aches and Headache

COVID-19 Testing in Mecklenburg County and Surrounding NC Counties

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, walk into any of our Charlotte area AFC Urgent Care centers to be tested and seen by a medical provider. Our team will provide you with rapid results and a full medical examination to rule out any other possibilities. We see kids 6 months and up for COVID testing, so if your student needs a test for school,  we are open 7 days a week with extended hours to serve you. If you are traveling, make sure you review your travel testing needs:  AFC Urgent Care is here to provide a safe testing environment for all your travel requirements.

AFC Urgent Care is committed to keeping Charlotte, North Carolina, and our surrounding communities of Gastonia, Mooresville, Pineville, Ballantyne, Indian Trail, Statesville, and Hickory healthy and safe.

For additional COVID information in your area, visit your local health department.

Mecklenburg County, North Carolina Health Department:

(704) 336-6500

https://www.mecknc.gov/HealthDepartment/Pages/default.aspx

Iredell County, North Carolina Health Department:

(704) 878-5300

http://www.co.iredell.nc.us/

Gaston County, North Carolina Health Department:

(704) 853-5000

https://www.gastongov.com/government/departments/health_and_human_services/contact_us.php

Catawba County, North Carolina Health Department:

(828) 695-5800

https://www.catawbacountync.gov/county-services/public-health/