fbpixel

Our website uses cookies to help enhance your browsing experience. Continue to browse our site if you agree to our use of cookies as described in Unilab's Cookie Policy .

For information on how we protect your privacy, please read our Privacy Policy .

Tuseran Banner
Should You Get Tested for COVID if You Have Dry Cough?

Cough & Colds

Should You Get Tested for COVID if You Have Dry Cough?

Based on the latest variants, one of the early warning signs of COVID-19 is a dry cough. See if you should get tested to prevent the spread of this virus.


Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, a lot of double guessing happens when it comes to “common” health issues like cough, colds, and headaches. This is because no matter the variant, common COVID-19 symptoms include the mentioned health issues. Based on first glances alone, it is very difficult to know if you are already dealing with COVID-19 or are just undergoing a minor health hiccup.

But as restrictionsloosen and people are returning back to their “normal” and pre-pandemic routines, it is important to not let your guard down. The virus is still around, and newer variants are being detected, such as Omicron BA.2.12.1 that is said to be more contagious than its predecessors.

With this in mind, learn when you should get tested if you are experiencing symptoms like cough, colds, or headaches. This way, you will be able to panic less when the situation actually happens, and help stop widespread transmission of the virus before it causes another outbreak.

Take Note of These COVID-19 Testing Guidelines
If you are an asymptomatic close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, the Philippines’ Department of Health (DOH) advises that you  to undergo RT-PCR testing five (5) to seven (7) days after exposure. However, if RT-PCR tests are unavailable, you can ask your doctor about taking a rapid antigen test.,

Meanwhile, you can undergo an RT-PCR or rapid antigen test if you are NOT a close contact of a positive case, but are already experiencing any of these symptoms alongside a dry cough:

  • Fever
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Diarrhea

Once you deal with any of these symptoms, you can also consult a trusted doctor right away to know the next steps you and/your family should take. Should there be a positive test result, ensure that isolation and sanitary protocols are in place to keep everyone in your household safe and protected from the virus.

Got a Negative Test? Act on Symptoms Right Away
Even if your COVID-19 test yields a negative result, practice safety protocols as well to prevent the spread of the virus. Make sure to wear well-fitted face masks, practice social distancing, and wash and clean hands with soap or alcohol.

Boost your immune system too  by eating healthy and nutrient-rich food, drinking enough water, taking high-quality supplements, and getting enough sleep. Most importantly, health experts recommend getting your two initial doses of a COVID-19 vaccine or a booster as an added layer of protection for your body.

In case symptoms like cough, cold, or headache manifest and you are sure it is not because of COVID-19, combat these right away with Dextromethorphan HBr Phenylpropanolamine HCl Paracetamol Tuseran® Forte.

It has Dextromethorphan HBr that helps stop cough; Phenylpropanolamine HCl that aids in promoting better breathing, relieve congestion in clogged passageways and sinuses and in postnasal drip; and Paracetamol that assists in addressing fever symptoms.

Learn more about how you can utilize Dextromethorphan HBr Phenylpropanolamine HCl Paracetamol Tuseran® Forte to your advantage - visit this website for more details!

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
ASC REF CODE U065P060322TS

References:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html
https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/jul/4-questions-you-may-have-about-covid19-testing-answered/
https://doh.gov.ph/node/33559
https://www.who.int/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1597445/new-omicron-subvariant-detected-in-11-foreigners-3-filipinos
https://www.verywellhealth.com/omicron-sub-subvariants-5235800

Was this article helpful?