I woke up Saturday morning feeling like crap and, by mid-day, I had a fever. So, given my recent travels to France and Taiwan, I decided to get a COVID19 test. Here's what happened:
First, it was incredibly hard to find information about getting tested. The Austin Health Department website had zero information on testing. I found some news articles that said Austin has it but couldn't confirm. I called 311 & they said they'd call me back. I'm still waiting.
Second, I did manage to learn that as of Friday a private hospital, BSW Health, does provide testing. It's $40. I filled out the online form and they said I met the qualifications. So, yesterday morning, I drove to the drive thru testing.
It took an hour but they finally shoved a huge swap up my nose, told me to stay at home, and that I'd get the results within 48 hrs.
The results came back this morning. I tested positive for Coronavirus and am now quarantined. The health department will call me soon I guess.
The results came back this morning. I tested positive for Coronavirus and am now quarantined. The health department will call me soon I guess.
The doc says given that a lot of my aches are gone and my fever is down (thanks Tylonel!) I have a mild case but, until further notice, I'm inside. The results go to the state lab for confirmation and to also test for the flu.
In this process, I learned:
1. There's no easy place to go for information.
2. Local health departments have no clue.
3. It's crazy you have to wait 24-48hrs for results.
4. More people have it than you think. If you feel sick, take your temp. If you have one, get tested.
1. There's no easy place to go for information.
2. Local health departments have no clue.
3. It's crazy you have to wait 24-48hrs for results.
4. More people have it than you think. If you feel sick, take your temp. If you have one, get tested.
The big concern now is to make sure my breathing is ok. The doctor says it's mild since my fever has gone down but to monitor my breathing. If I develop shortness of breath or a fever again, I'm supposed to call 911. I'll keep you updated!
Update: Austin's 311 called me back. BSW Health in Austin is currently the ONLY place you can get tested. And it's $40 bucks. That is a travesty. We are so screwed in containing this.
