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The question of the season: covid-19 or allergies?

As allergy season converges with the COVID-19 pandemic, here are signs and symptoms to look out for.

Diagnostics Testing|Mar. 31, 2022

Spring fever, spring is here at last.

But what to do if spring fever manifests into what may be an actual fever?

Springtime is finally upon us, bringing warmer weather, spring sports, gardening, picnics and cherry blossoms with it. After a cold, dark winter, we can venture out on that hike, go on that bike ride, feel the sun on our faces, put our noses in those flowers …

Bam. Allergies.

For millions across the U.S., seasonal allergies are nothing new. But as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and its evolving strains, like the Omicron variant, waking up with a runny nose after a day on the trails with friends carries a whole new meaning.

So, you’re unsure whether your symptoms warrant monitoring the pollen count or self-isolating? Here’s what you need to know.

Still, symptoms can vary from person to person, and both COVID-19 and seasonal allergies can impact each of us differently.

When in Doubt, Test.

Thankfully, we have a critical tool in our collective allergy season toolbox this spring — using a COVID-19 Self Test when and where you need it.

Last April, we began shipping our BinaxNOW COVID-19 Self Test to retailers across the U.S., bringing fast and reliable answers to the masses when and where they may need them. Now, you can find a test online and at local pharmacies, supermarkets and shops across the U.S. And now that our BinaxNOW COVID-19 Self Test is both FSA and HSA eligible, as well as available at no cost through insurance, it’s easier than ever to have a few Self Tests on hand when they’re needed most.

Our BinaxNOW Self Test can detect COVID-19 in 15 minutes with a painless lower nasal swab and simple in-box instructions, providing those who may suffer with seasonal allergies with peace of mind as they head out to the office, school, a picnic in the park, a baseball game, or wherever they may be defrosting themselves from the winter to venture out to.

If there’s any lingering doubt, always consult your physician. Self-testing for COVID-19 is just one way of finding peace of mind — a healthcare professional can help to narrow down the source of your symptoms and guide your recovery.

Ruling out COVID-19 and going forth with confidence is an easy way to put a spring in your step. And if you need a bit more reassurance as you head outside, here’s what you need to know.

That said…

Get up, get out, spring is everywhere.

This story was originally published on March 31, 2022 and updated on June 13, 2022.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

The BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Antigen Self Test has not been FDA cleared or approved. It has been authorized by the FDA under an emergency use authorization. It has been authorized only for the detection of proteins from SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens, and is only authorized for the duration of the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of in vitro diagnostics for detection and/or diagnosis of COVID-19 under Section 564(b)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360bbb-3(b)(1), unless the declaration is terminated or authorization is revoked sooner. For serial testing, the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test should be performed twice over 3 days, at least 24 hours (and no more than 48 hours) apart. For symptomatic use, a single test can be used.

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