COVID-19 Symptoms and Testing

We understand that you may have many questions about COVID-19 symptoms, in addition to when and where to go for a COVID-19 test. This page provides information on what signs and symptoms to look out for, and what steps to take if you feel you or a loved one is showing symptoms of COVID-19.
 

Where to get a COVID-19 test

Valley Children’s Healthcare locations offer COVID-19 testing to all pediatric patients (children 0-18 and young adults up to age 21). However, Valley Children's Healthcare locations are not COVID-19 community testing locations. Many counties offer free or discounted COVID-19 testing. Several private labs also offer testing. Please visit the CDPH testing lookup tool or valleycovidhelp.com for testing locations near you.

While you are waiting for your COVID-19 test results, continue to self-isolate to keep other members of your household safe.
 

More information about COVID-19:

We encourage you to visit the California Department of Public Health website, which issues regular updates on COVID-19 in English and Spanish. 

 

Frequenty Asked Questions about COVID-19:

 


What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) can vary widely, and may include the following flu-like symptoms:

  • Fever (greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Diarrhea and/or vomiting

For some, COVID-19 symptoms can become severe and need immediate medical attention. If you or a loved one are showing the following signs, contact your medical provider immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • Confusion
  • Bluish lips or face

Valley Children's Healthcare offers an online COVID-19 Symptom Checker as a resource to help guide you, based on you or your child’s current symptoms. This symptom checker can be found at valleychildrens.org/COVID19symptoms.

 

What do I do if I or a loved one is showing symptoms?

If you believe you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, or believe that you may have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, first contact your healthcare provider. It is very important to call them before leaving your home; your healthcare provider will be able to advise you on what to do, and will be able to take steps to prepare for your arrival to keep themselves and others safe.

If you are feeling ill, make sure you isolate yourself as much as you can from other members of your household. Do not leave your home, and contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If testing is recommended, look online for nearby testing sites and set an appointment online or via telephone. Please do not go to the nearest emergency room unless you are experiencing a medical emergency.

 

What can I do to protect myself and others from COVID-19?

There are many steps you can take to keep yourself, your family, and your community safe and to help slow the spread of COVID-19, including:

  • Get the vaccine as soon as you and your children are eligible
  • Wear masks in crowds, especially if other are not vaccinated
  • Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and wash your hands after
  • Stay home and self-isolate if you are not feeling well
  • Practice good hand hygiene: wash your hands regularly and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel
  • Keep your home clean and regularly disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and the refrigerator door
  • Follow guidance from public health officials

Remember to keep in close contact with your healthcare provider about any additional steps you can take or if you have any questions about your health.