Trusted protection to help reduce serious illness and support long-term health
COVID19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is caused by a virus called SARSCoV2. It spreads easily from person to person and most often affects the respiratory system, with symptoms that may feel like a cold, flu, or pneumonia.
While many people experience mild illness, COVID19 can cause serious health complications for some individuals. Older adults and people with certain underlying medical conditions are at higher risk of severe illness. Some people may also develop ongoing health issues after infection, sometimes called postCOVID conditions or long COVID.
At Marshfield Clinic, our family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatric providers offer COVID19 vaccination as part of routine preventive care. We help patients understand current recommendations and make informed decisions based on age, health status, and risk factors.
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View immunization history
You can view your immunization history by logging into My Marshfield Clinic.
Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
Symptoms and recovery can vary widely from person to person.
Possible complications
COVID-19 can affect more than just the lungs. In some cases, complications may involve:
- Worsening of heart, lung, or kidney conditions
- Hospitalization
- Ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or difficulty concentrating (post-COVID conditions)
Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of severe illness and complications.
Who's most at risk
COVID-19 can affect anyone, but the risk of severe illness is higher for:
- Older adults
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Staying up to date with vaccination helps protect both individuals and the broader community.
How can I get tested for COVID-19
COVID-19 tests are by appointment only. If you are a current Marshfield Clinic Health System patient, call your primary care provider to schedule an appointment for a test.
Or, call your preferred Marshfield Clinic Health System location to talk to our appointing teams.
Vaccine recommendations
COVID-19 vaccines help the immune system recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. All currently approved or authorized vaccines in the U.S. are safe and effective and reduce the risk of severe illness.
Vaccination recommendations are updated regularly. For the most current guidance, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC does not recommend one vaccine product over another.
Your provider can help you:
- Review your vaccination history
- Understand whether you are due for an updated dose
- Decide when vaccination is appropriate for you or your child
How Marshfield Clinic supports you
Our care teams provide clear, supportive guidance on COVID-19 vaccination, including:
- Reviewing your health history and risk factors
- Answering questions about vaccines and booster recommendations
- Helping coordinate vaccination at the right time for you
We’re here to support informed choices and ongoing preventive care.
Frequently asked questions
What types of COVID-19 tests are available?
Two kinds of testing are used: COVID-19 PCR tests and antibody tests. The PCR test indicates if you have a current infection, while the antibody test indicates if you had a previous infection. These tests are administered according to CDC guidelines.
What is antibody testing (blood test)?
COVID-19 antibody testing (or serology testing) is used primarily for epidemiologic purposes to help determine how much of the U.S. population has been infected. Antibodies can be found in the blood of people who are tested after infection and can indicate if people have had an immune response to the infection.
We use antibody testing to identify potential convalescent plasma donors and support epidemiologic studies. This form of testing should not be used to diagnose COVID-19 or assess protective immunity.
What is COVID-19 PRC testing?
COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swab testing occurs when a health care provider determines that symptoms are such that testing is warranted. For example, testing may be ordered if you are exhibiting signs of fever with a temperature greater than 100 degrees, a new cough (within the last day or two) or shortness of breath that is not due to allergies or a chronic condition, and you are concerned that you may have been exposed to COVID-19. Testing also could occur to investigate something detected during a screening.
Testing involves checking a sample from your respiratory system by swabbing beyond the nose into the pharynx. It can take 1-2 days to receive results from the lab.
Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines have undergone extensive study and continue to be monitored for safety and effectiveness.
Can children receive COVID-19 vaccines?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for eligible children. Your child’s provider can review age-specific guidance.
Do I still need a vaccine if I already had COVID-19?
Vaccination can provide additional protection, even if you’ve had COVID-19 before. Your provider can help you decide what’s best based on your history.