A good result to COVID-19 test

After writing, “Should the US go on a National Quarantine?” for the Chico EnterpriseRecord last week, some people have reached out and asked, “What were my test results after getting a COVID-19 test?”

I am relieved to say that after quarantining for six days, I tested negative. Although I tested negative, during my quarantine, I wondered, “If I am positive, who might have I put at risk before I figured I was feeling sick?” According to mayoclinic.org, COVID-19 can show symptoms between two and 14 days after exposure. I thought about all the customers I interacted within those days, the people in my household that could have been exposed and the people that they could have interacted throughout their days doing essential activities and so forth.

Although I try to take all necessary precautions, I like many other Americans, need to participate in essential activities such as working, getting groceries, etc. And like many others, I wear my mask, social distance to the best of my ability, wash my hands frequently and try to limit my outings to essential activities. We as Americans need to all take the proper precautions to limit the spread of this virus. We need to protect our communities, our loved ones, even strangers in the next city over. As a member of your community, please wear a mask if able, wash your hands and stay home if you are feeling sick. We need to fight this virus together.

— Emily Brodowski, Chico