Update on our breakthrough Covid infections...it's real and can be a bad deal.

[MontanaMama]

Last edited Thu Jan 6, 2022, 07:21 PM - Edit history (1)

I posted last weekend that my husband tested positive for Covid. We’re vaxxed and boosted as is our 16 year old son. The kiddo and I tested negative that same day. We immediately isolated hubs…the kiddo and I masked when we had to go near his bedroom. I masked when bringing him food, laundry etc. Hubs symptoms have been very mild.

By Monday, I had definite symptoms…all the symptoms and was still testing negative…same with our son who had zero symptoms. Tuesday and yesterday I can tell you that I was as sick as I’ve ever been. I would’ve cried had I had the energy. The cough is deep and painful and I can’t even speak to the headache and body aches. A skin searing bath was not enough to keep me warm. It is just awful.

A kind DUer who is a nurse, PM’d me that I needed a PCR or POC (point of care) test. PCR’s are next to impossible to get where I live. She also told me that more than likely I was positive. And, you know what? She sent me a few POC tests. Can you even believe it? I took the test last night and it lit up like a Christmas tree. Now I know what I’m dealing with. The kiddo took the POC and he is still negative, thankfully.

We mask everywhere we go. We don’t go anywhere we don’t have to. We had no one over for the holidays and we didn’t go anywhere either. Where did we get it? One of our employees (also vaxxed and boosted) gathered with family (everyone in attendance vaxxed and boosted except tiny kids) over the holidays. There were around 20 people…all but two got Covid. There are twin babies who are very sick at this moment. That employee sat across the lunch table from my husband in the breakroom at work and that was all it took.

Here’s what I know. Omicron might mean that you get a sniffle and skate through a Covid infection. It might also make you very very sick. It has been a hellish few days around here. I don’t know when I’ve felt this horrible. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone other than maybe a list of especially evil republicans.

PLEASE don’t stop wearing masks. Wear an n95 if you can get one. They are pretty available online and really not that bad to wear. PLEASE don’t let your guard down when it comes to the people you spend time with. You’ve gotta know that they’re conducting themselves safely. Experts say we’re in for a heck of a ride the next month or so.

Last and not least…DUers are just the best. From taking the time and trouble to send me tests to the PM’s checking in. I am in a place of gratitude for this place and it’s people.

Stay safe.

[Demovictory9]

1. wow... sending you good vibes

[MontanaMama]

5. Thanks.

Today is a better day for sure. Thank goodness for the vaccines.

[wnylib]

46. Did you take any meds for the symptoms? If so, what ones worked best?

(Just in case I need to know.)

[MontanaMama]

47. I didn't. It seriously came on so fast

I didn’t have any time to prepare. I did take ibuprofen for the body aches and headache. Oh…Tuesday at 3 am, I made a hot bourbon, lemon honey and water to smooth my throat and cough in an effort to try to sleep. It did help. I slept in a recliner that night because laying flat made the cough worse. Lordy I hope you do t catch it.

[wnylib]

51. Well, I'm hoping I don't catch it either.

But, I am also vaxxed and boosted, wear an N95 everywhere, and don't go out often, never to restaurants, theaters, or crowded places. If you caught it, then I can't be sure that my precautions will work, either.

This week's new cases in my area jumped from 500 last week to 800 this week. Positivity rate is over 18%. (Small city surrounded by rural area, so those numbers are high for this population.) Deaths are up, but hospitalizations are down. Can't be sure if the jump is a post-Christmas spike or if it's due to omicron - or both.

[MontanaMama]

81. I'm vaxxed and boosted too.

Also a flu shot on board. Hubs and kiddo have all that too. It is so odd that I got so sick…husband got very minor symptoms and the kiddo is negative. We all live in a small house without a lot of room to separate. Covid affects people so differently. I hope we someday understand it.

[Meowmee]

88. I think her husband

Ate unmasked with an employee who had it, both were unmasked if I read it correctly. . Employee was at a gathering with unmasked, vaxed relatives, someone had a bt case.

[2golddogs]

71. OTC meds

If you can get someone to go to the store for you, Theraflu is magical. There’s a box that has a separate day and night formula. The med itself and the warm steam when you drink it is a great combo. Rest well.

[MontanaMama]

82. I forgot about that stuff!

I have some in the medicine cabinet. Thank you for the reminder.

[Haggard Celine]

103. I'll second that!

It really helped me with my symptoms. OTC medicine might not chase away the virus, but it definitely helps with the symptoms. Theraflu is really good, as is Nyquil Cold and Sinus. The generic brands of both work just as well for me.

[MLAA]

2. Sending you wishes for a fast and full recovery!

[MontanaMama]

7. I'm on the road to recovery!

Thank science!

[XanaDUer2]

3. DUers are great feel better nt

[boston bean]

4. How,is your husband feeling now a few days into it? I am sorry you are not feeling well.

[MontanaMama]

9. He's doing pretty well.

A little tired and some residual congestion. I’m grateful only one of us went down hard. That’s what’s so peculiar with this thing. You never know.

[LAS14]

6. Thanks for all the detail! I hope you and hubby are well soon and kiddo doesn't get it. nt

[MontanaMama]

10. Amen.

So hoping the kiddo stays healthy. We mask at home when he’s here. Masks work!

[Nevilledog]

8. I'm so sorry you got hit so hard. Can I give you some soup?

🍜


Here's a virtual hug. I'm not getting closer cuz you've got the cooties.

[MontanaMama]

11. OMG. That made me laugh and

cough. I’ll take virtual soup and your hug. Feeling more like myself today.

[Ocelot II]

12. Get better soon, that sounds awful!

It sounds a lot like the Hong Kong flu I got in that pandemic many years ago, and I haven't felt that sick before or since. So I've been using N95 masks since Delta got to be a thing (and it's possible you got that instead of Omicron, since both are still circulating), and I'm not about to stop now. Your vaccinations will keep you out of the hospital, and I hope you feel better soon.

[MontanaMama]

18. Vaccines are definitely what allowed me to stay home.

Can you imagine going through this without them?

[LoisB]

13. I sincerely hope your son stays negative and that you and hubby get well very soon.

[MontanaMama]

15. Thank you LoisB.

Today is a much better day.

[gldstwmn]

14. I hope you get better soon. This is exactly why I won't go to the gym

and am barely leaving my house right now. I don't want a breakthrough case and further don't want long Covid.
I did receive test kits that I requested for free from the state yesterday. I was pleasantly surprised. I thought they would take much longer. I hope
I don't need them.

[MontanaMama]

16. Oh I'm so glad you have some tests.

So many places are sold out. I hope you don’t need them either. Hubs didn’t have definite symptoms…he just woke up feeling “off”. Everyone is so different.

[malaise]

17. DU is the best

Get well soon

[MontanaMama]

19. I think I turned the corner today.

Feeling grateful for sure.

[malaise]

21. Great news

[MoonRiver]

20. I'm so sorry you are going through that hell.

You might know that my daughter and her family have gone through the same nightmare. She's still not out of the woods. She said no illness she's had is like this one. It has been terrifying.

[RKP5637]

22. Thanks for posting this and what happened! Everyone Get Well Soon!

Here's good vibes for speedy recoveries!!!

[Solly Mack]

23. Speedy and full recovery to you!

[nolabear]

24. Aw, man. I'm so sorry. Take care of yourself and let others help.

[LaMouffette]

25. Thank you for sharing your experience, MontanaMama. I'm so sorry that it's hitting you and your

husband so severely. I'm terrified of getting it and even more terrified of getting it and giving it to my "hubs" (love that).

Here's wishing you and your family a speedy recovery.

[TheBlackAdder]

26. DON'T TRUST ANYONE -- One slip up and COVID crept into our household.

.

One of my daughter's friends is an anti-vaxxer, but was masked when she met my daughter on Christmas Eve. They were outside for an hour and she briefly hugged the friend. That's all it took. She called my daughter on 12/27 saying her BF and her were positive. On 12/28 my daughter started seeing a temperature spike, and used a BirnaxNOW rapid test kit I had. That test went positive within 30 seconds, then she used another to see if that was a fluke and it too went positive. I went through $100 of rapid tests and ran out by the time the 2nd kid went positive and before the PCR results came back. I started to trip a fever after New Years and my sister sent me a BirnaxNOW one she had and that tripped positive.


That girlfriend/boyfriend pair are both assholes who venture around unmasked. It turns out she alone got several complete households infected that have comorbidities and one was a sheltered 9-month pregnant woman who was super careful to not get it. When confronted, she didn't give a shit! Her BF was spreading his shit at TCNJ and elsewhere too. They're like Typhoid Mary & Typhoid Chad.


Also, going against my instructions, my daughter wore two of those cheap-assed blue masks instead of the N95s I gave her. Those things don't do shit, even if doubled up, regardless of who's trying to sell them as effective. Most of them are not surgical grade, and are made in mainland China with subpar materials and suspect packaging. Well, 3 of the 4 of us are with COVID here and we've been in quarantine since 12/27. We're all vaxxed and boostered.


Luckily, Christmas day was cancelled with our extended family and presents were exchanged at the bottom of the driveway, with all masked and only waves and fist bumps allowed. But still, this caused a lot of testing by all to make sure others were OK.


Also, it is lucky we live in NJ, because the PCR tests are FREE.


Besides the Rapid Test loss, the two girls that got infected had jobs they needed to appear to, so they lost income. My other daughter and I can work from home so we're OK. My son was told to stay away from home. One twin sister and BIL live near me with immuno/comorbidity issues. My other twin sister and BIL lives in PA and she has weakened immune and comorbidities. The PCR tests in PA cost them $90 each. These two assholes cost our household/family alone in the neighborhood of $1,500 so far. Not to mention fucking us up health wise.

.

[LymphocyteLover]

27. I'm sorry to hear that but I'm curious how you did the PCR test? Through the mail?

You mailed in your swab?

[MontanaMama]

41. I just found out it wasn't a PCR test.

It was a POC test. Point of care. I’ll correct my OP. Shows you what I know! It shows instant (15 minutes) accurate results.

[LymphocyteLover]

67. Thanks for the clarification! But now I'm wondering what test you used initially that was

showing you as negative?

[MontanaMama]

79. It was an antigen test.

I tested negative for 3 straight days after my husband tested positive on the same antigen test. My DU nurse friend told me that I was very likely positive because of hubs test. She was exactly right.

[LymphocyteLover]

122. I've heard that a lot of people test negative if they just swab their nose but get positive tests

when they swab their throats. Just an FYI.

Also, it may just be just a matter of people not being reliably positive by the antigen test at every day of their infection, for whatever reason. Everyone is a little variable.

[sheshe2]

28. That is frightening, MM.

I hope your son stays safe and you and your husband recover quickly.

Hugs~

[BigmanPigman]

29. You just described my fear.

To be that sick is Hell. I dread getting Covid and make everyone in my house wear an N95. So far only a few have been let inside in 2 years. I get sick easily (as a 1st grade teacher my environment was always filled with germs). With my luck I would get as sick as you are.

[MontanaMama]

42. It was my fear as well.

I said from the beginning that I had a terrible fear of getting Covid. Every cold I ever had went straight to my lungs. I walk and hike a lot to keep my lungs strong but with this thing…you just don’t know. Imagine if we had no vaccine?

[mvd]

30. I'm sorry to hear this but glad to

see your updates have you feeling better! DU definitely comes together when someone is having a hard time. As I said in a Lounge post, I had my own Covid scare. My friend tested positive. Fortunately it’s been 9 days for me with no symptoms.

[MontanaMama]

32. Oh wow!

I’m so glad you didn’t go down with this. Isn’t it weird how people react differently?

[mvd]

36. It's so strange

I did have a mask on in her car and she didn’t come in the house. Those things might have saved me. Plus she came down with symptoms the NEXT day.

[Traildogbob]

31. My best wishes to all three

Having a fellow DU poster send you tests, that is what I hoped the country I served was about. And it is for a majority. Scary to hear your battle. Hope you and your family all recover soon without long term issues.

[japple]

33. ((((((MontanaMama & Family)))))) Thank you for posting. Sorry you are going thru this.

You gave good information in your post and I am grateful for it. I hope you guys feel better SOON!

[Maru Kitteh]

34. MM so good to hear from you. I was hoping you would update us 🙂

It’s very good news that your son is still negative. I hope he can stay that way! He’ll most likely be out of the woods if he makes it to day 7 after the first day that you had symptoms without testing positive - assuming you had contact with him at that time, of course.

I’m sorry your bout with this crap was so painful. I hear a lot of people say they felt like they were dropped from a tree or severely beaten in a dark alley. My best advice is to hydrate and balance periods of rest and activity. Both are very important in your recovery.

Our warmest thoughts for you and your family ❤️

[LisaL]

35. What is the name of the PCR test?

I am unaware of at home PCR tests.

[Delphinus]

39. Me too.

I used an antigen, BinaxNOW, test the other day due to someone testing positive - I only had minimal contact with them, but wanted to be sure.

So many stories that the anitigen can't pick up Omicron so was curious about a PCR.

[MontanaMama]

44. See my response below.

This was a POC test.bill correct my OP.

[ShazzieB]

97. I am SO confused about the different test types!

And the terminology used. I tried to research it, but I can't find anything that covers all the terms I keep hearing.

If anyone knows a source that gives a good rundown on this, please post!

EDITED TO ADD: Part of my confusion is because different websites seem to use variations in terminology. No two seem to be exactly the same. I felt like I need a glossary of all the different terms and which ones mean the same thing (if such a thing exists).

[MontanaMama]

43. I was just corrected.

It is a POC test. Point of care. I will correct my OP.

[boston bean]

58. Lucira make an at home pcr

[sir pball]

73. Lucira is a "PCR Quality" test, not actually PCR.

Thy claim to be 98% as accurate as a lab PCR, but the test itself isn't a polymerase chain reaction. It's a newer, less sensitive but much simpler technology - reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification, RT-LAMP. I'm not familiar with it, bit a glance at the Wiki seems to indicate it's a "light" version of PCR:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymerase_chain_reaction

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_Transcription_Loop-mediated_Isothermal_Amplification

[LisaL]

77. It's not a PCR test.

Not sure how reliable it actually is either. Not all reviews on amazon are glowing.

[boston bean]

124. From fda. Correct not pcr but similar

https://www.fda.gov/media/147494/download

The Lucira CHECKIT COVID-19 Test Kit is a single-use test kit intended for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19. This test is for nonprescription home use with self-collected anterior nasal (nasal) swab specimens in individuals aged 14 years and older (self-collected) or individuals ?2 years (collected by an adult) with or without symptoms or other epidemiological reasons to suspect COVID-19.

This test is similar to a PCR test in that it utilizes a molecular amplification technology for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA. SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA is generally detectable in anterior nasal swab specimens during the acute phase of infection. Positive results indicate the presence of viral RNA, but clinical correlation with past medical history and other diagnostic information is necessary to determine infection status. Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses.
Negative results are presumptive and confirmation with a molecular assay performed in a laboratory, if necessary for patient management, may be performed. Negative results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or management decisions for the individual, including infection control decisions. Negative results should be considered in the context of an individual’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19. It is important to consult healthcare providers to discuss test results and if additional testing is necessary.

[Maru Kitteh]

80. There actually is one at-home PCR test, CUE

But it is SPENDY.

You could google “cue covid test” and it should come up.

ON EDIT: Correction. It’s not a true PCR but claims to be equivalent.

[virgdem]

37. Sending healing thoughts and wishes for a speedy recovery.

Stay safe!

[Hekate]

38. All the best to you & your family, and get well fast. That is scary, scary. Thanks for checking in.

[brer cat]

40. I'm sorry you have good through this awful virus.

I hope you and hubby are both better soon and that your son escapes this misery.

[crickets]

45. Oh, no. I'm so sorry to hear this.

I hope you and your husband feel better very soon, and your son manages to stay clear. Get better.

[FakeNoose]

48. Montana Mama this is very good information - Thanks!

I'm sorry you're feeling poorly, but i trust that your vaccination will keep you out of the hospital. That's what it's supposed to do. They never promised us that we wouldn't get the virus, when we got vaccinated.

It's a scary world out there but we can all help each other by keeping isolated while we're sick, and that's exactly what you are doing. Prayers and healing thoughts for you and your family.

[ProfessorGAC]

49. Take Care Of Yourself, MM

Hoping you get better, soon.

[gademocrat7]

50. Sending healing hugs to you and your husband.

Take care.

[mgardener]

52. I just spent 5.5 hours

Volunteering at a vaccine clinic today.
Over 550 people and some kids. Most for boosters.
I am exhausted but so glad so many people came.
Our COVID numbers are skyrocketing.
I picked up our free test kits and masks today from NY state today.

We are so careful and never stopped wearing masks.
I am so sorry that you, your husband and son have to go through this.
Hope you feel better soon.

Stay safe everyone!

[KatK]

53. Sending healing vibes. Sounds awful, but you're getting through it! n/t

[calimary]

54. Big safely-distanced hugs to you, MontanaMama!

My husband and I still wear masks all the time. ALL the time. Whenever we go out. And even if it's only for a short drive so he can smoke his cigar, masks come with us. I enjoy wearing them on lanyards around my neck. They're always handy - right there whenever you have to pull it up over your face. I accessorize with them now. But then again, shit, why NOT have fun with them? Make a fashion statement while you're protecting your health and the health of others!

[C Moon]

55. Could it be the flu?

Along with COVID positive?

[progree]

99. I just learned there is a term for that: FLURONA ⚠️ /nt

[C Moon]

121. Oh wow!

[ChazII]

56. An Embry COVID testing center is three blocks from

my home. It has always had a few cars drive in for the person to be tested. On Monday the cars have been wrapped around the building and snake their way through the parking lot as the cars make their way to the actual testing site. It is an old school in the Scottsdale School District.

You fears are like mine.

[niyad]

57. Can't do much. But sending vibes for healing and strength and endurance for all of you.

May your recovery be swift and ccomplete. Your DU Family is here for you.

[OhZone]

59. Hope you and yours get better asap -

But this -

"That employee sat across the lunch table from my husband in the breakroom at work and that was all it took."

This is why I am not eating out since I heard of Omicron.

From the start of the pandemic, I've heard that being in close quarters with others eating and especially mask-less was a major vector of infection.

I also didn't visit any friends or family over the holidays!

Just kept it to me and Julie.

[Iris]

60. Oh, Montana Mom, I am so sorry to hear this.

Are you monitoring your blood oxygen? The coughing sounds horrible

[hermetic]

61. Glad to see your post

I have been worrying about you and wondering. Sincerely hope you are over the worst of it. If I could I would bring you soup or whatever but we are freaking iced in down here. And the number of cases here have just tripled since yesterday. So, I won't be going anywhere for a while. You rest and get better soon. Sending healing thoughts your way. Keep in touch!

[SheltieLover]

62. So sorry to hear you are going through this nightmare!

Healing vibes on the way! 💓💓💓

[diehardblue]

63. ❤️

[iluvtennis]

64. MontanaMama, thans for sharing this infor with us. Sending well wishes for you and your family. n/t

[BumRushDaShow]

65. So sorry to see this post and am sending you healing thoughts MM

I know today, for the first time, when I stopped by my sister's house to help my niece set up a printer for her virtual school sessions, I wore a N95 (have started wearing them now my last couple trips out instead of my usual double-masking).

They didn't bat an eye when I apologized. My sis, BIL and I are all double-vaxxed and boosted and my niece is double-vaxxed and just became eligible as of Walensky's signoff yesterday (she will be 16 in February but can now get a booster at 15 and is right around the 5 month post-dose 2 mark so they have to schedule her for that). However their block is apparently raging with COVID (she got some texts from her neighbors alerting her to their positives along with their kids who hang out with my niece).

My sis has RA and recently had a hip replacement that ended up getting a staph infection from the hospital (they sent her a certified letter apologizing ), so she is now on all kinds of infusion antibiotics (has to do it for 6 weeks with a complicated at-home setup using a PICC line), let alone being immuno-compromised due to her RA meds... and my BIL is in dialysis 3 x a week. My sis was suspected to have contracted COVID this past fall (positive antigen and inconclusive PCR) so to be safe, they had put her on the monoclonal antibodies right away back then.

I sure as hell don't want to contract this (like you and many others, stuff like this goes right to the lungs and I had that experience of pneumonia and in the hospital on IV steroids about 10 years ago near the tail end of the swine flu pandemic - and had never done the flu shot before that but have every year since), nor do I want to pass it on to my most vulnerable family members. Have been trying to stockpile a few things to reduce the every 7 - 10 day trips out and want to just cocoon until this surge runs its course.

I know we are all pulling for you to recover quickly.

[mgardener]

66. I just spent 5.5 hours

Volunteering at a vaccine clinic today.
Over 550 people and some kids. Most for boosters.
I am exhausted but so glad so many people came.
Our COVID numbers are skyrocketing here and our ICU is at 96 %.
I picked up our free test kits and masks today from NY state today.

We are so careful and never stopped wearing masks.
I am so sorry that you, your husband and son have to go through this.
Hope you feel better soon.

Stay safe everyone!

[stage left]

68. I'm so sorry for what you and your family are going through.

I was sick like that once with the flu. I don't ever want to be that sick again. Thank you for giving us all the details. I hope you recover completely really soon.

[littlemissmartypants]

69. All I can do is send a hug and wishes that you all get better soon.❤

Stay encouraged.

[pioche4]

70. Sending you thoughts of rapid healing....

I wish you the best recovery...I'm sure it is both exhausting and frustrating that you got this...take care, and I wish you lots of healing vibes.

[Orrex]

72. My not large company has dozens of people out with covid

And the higher-ups, who have downplayed and ridiculed the pandemic since day one, are claiming that all of the infections are due to exposure during the holidays.

This is a nightmarish illness, and the society-wide response is being dictated by people who prioritize the economy and corporate profits over any other concerns.

You have my every sympathy and my sincere hopes for full, speedy recovery.

[chia]

74. Wishing you a speedy and full recovery

[MustLoveBeagles]

75. Wishing you and hubby a speedy and full recovery

[Grasswire2]

76. how many days from probable exposure until your symptoms arrived?

Or was your husb symptomatic first, and how many days from his exposure to employee?

This info is helpful. I'm sweating a bit after son's partner's mother (unmasked) put her cheek to mine recently.

[MontanaMama]

85. Such a good question. I wrote it down in my journal.

Hubs was exposed last Wednesday, December 29th. Our employee tested positive on the Thursday the 30th and called in sick to work. We all felt fine Friday (31st) and Saturday the 1st. Hubs fell woke up very early Sunday am and said “I don’t feel right.” I said…”I kinda feel a cold coming on, is that what you feel?” He said “maybe…I’m going to go get Covid tests.” He went to CVS and came home with a pile of them (antigen) and he tested positive right away. I did not ever test positive on the antigen test and neither did my son. Husband never had symptoms blow up. I was very sick by Monday morning. In 24 hours I went from feeling like a cold was coming on to almost incapacitated.

[Grasswire2]

89. So about four days.

I guess I am safe despite the unmasked cheek pressed against my face.

For now, anyway. I have felt a slight sore throat and runny nose the last several days. Haven't felt bad enough to use up one of my precious tests.

Thank you so much for the details. I hope you feel much improved very soon.

[MontanaMama]

92. I really hope you're in the clear too.

Crazy times were in. A friendly kiss on the cheek can change your life. Who knew?

[MyMission]

114. If you feel sick, "assume you have it" What you need to know

I read this article, which I think applies to everyone, not just the mid south.
I suggest you don't guess about being safe.

https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/omicron-covid-19-variant-in-mid-south-memphis-cases-numbers-rising/522-337f6955-da33-4258-ab66-72d681aea377

Threlkeld said Omicron's symptoms include a sore throat, headache, general malaise, congestion, and fatigue. He added, if you feel crummy, assume you have COVID-19, because it is so prevalent in our area at the moment....
Threlkeld suggested because so many people have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, if you feel sick, get tested.

"It is very difficult to know whether your symptoms are COVID or something else. So I think testing is so important. We don't want to expose others just because we think it is cold. Assume you have it," said Threlkeld.
(More at link)

Many of us who've been vaccinated and exposed will have no symptoms, some won't even catch it, some will have mild allergy or cold symptoms, etc. I work in retail, and have seen a lot of people sniffling and coughing. Often they assert it's just a cold! I'm wearing kn95 masks these days, or double masking.

[yardwork]

78. Hang in there! Thank you for sharing this information.

I'm so sorry you are having such a difficult time.

[MontanaMama]

83. Thank you yardwork.

I think I turned the corner today. Trying not to overdo because I’ve been warned that isn’t a good idea.

[yardwork]

116. Yes, viruses like to relapse. Slow and easy....

Good to hear that you're feeling better.

[Ms. Toad]

84. My daughter had a confirmed case.

Our best guess is that she got it from me, even though I never tested positive.

I had 3 negative antigen tests and one negative PCR test, swabbed at the peak of my symptoms.

Some of her symptoms (starting 6 days later) were identical (but exaggerated) and she had some additional symptoms.

Both of us woke with a scratchy throat and an immediate bronchial (deep) cough. When I get that kind of cough, it is always 4-5 days into a cold or the flu. Never the first symptom.

We assumed I had the flu (because of the fever) and she caught it from me because it was clearly (to us) the same illness - separated by 6 days. If we stick with the assumption it was the same illness, and she had a confirmed case of COVID, that means I likely had a false negative and COVID 6 days before her.

My test was drawn on 12/21. On 12/27 the FDA announced that 3 PCR tests looked for a gene part that omicron was lacking (one of the mutations). My best guess is that my 12/21 test was one of those. (Her test was on 12/30 - after the tests would have been withdrawn from use.)

[SCantiGOP]

86. Last I saw my region was 50-50 Delta and Omicron

Don’t know your area, but you could have Delta.
Best wishes on getting better.

[MontanaMama]

93. Someone else suggested that.

If I could’ve gotten a test to determine it, I definitely would have. I’m doing better today. Glad to have turned the corner. Thank you!

[sprinkleeninow]

87. Burdened in my heart for you and your loved ones.

Offering up strong prayer that you and yours receive healing relief and no further symptoms. 💗

[MontanaMama]

94. Oh my gosh. Thank you so much.

I think I’ve turned the corner today. What a week it has been. I really want people to know that we’re not out of the woods yet.

Again, thank you for your kindness.

[sprinkleeninow]

96. Slowly, but surely. Let things go of non importance.

My mind goes, "Do this, do that." Then the shortness of breath comes back on me.

This hideous virus makes you feel you're improving one minute and the next you feel crappy again.

"...turned the corner..." Thanks Be! 💛

[Meowmee]

90. So sorry you were so ill

I hope you and your husband recover soon 😀 I wonder if anyone knows yet if having O will give any type of immunity for a future infection.

[BobTheSubgenius]

91. Gosh that's a post full of terrible news.

I feel very badly for you and yours, and don't really have any good advice. My wife and I are staying safe, and just found and bought a carton of seriously upgraded masks. $5 per mask seems a bit rich, but I think I'd really feel stupid if I got sick by cheaping out on them.

The very best of luck and health to your family.

[MontanaMama]

95. Masks can keep us safe.

Every expert I listen to or read about tells us that better masks are game changers with this virus. We’re in for a wild ride this next month or so. I think your money is well spent. The mistake we made was we didn’t wear masks at our business with our handful of employees who are all vaxxed and boosted. How they spent their holidays got the, infected and thus we were infected too.

[GoodRaisin]

98. Wishing you get to feeling better soon.

My sister told me she has been dealing with this the last few days. Said she is feeling very bad today and it has gone into her chest. She gets tested Saturday. She is vaxed but not yet boosted.

I’m sending good vibes for both of you together.

[Cha]

100. Oh MontanaMama.. I am

so Sorry you and your family are going through this horrible COVID sickness.. and you're getting the worst of it.

You're so Strong.. Fighting that Off! Hope you're all healing by now! :

[MontanaMama]

107. Thanks Cha!

COVID is tough and I am tougher. Imagine if we didn’t have vaccines? Lordy.

[herding cats]

101. Sending you wishes for a full and speedy recovery.

DUers are the best! I'm so thrilled to hear of the kindness you've experienced. ❤️

Rest as much as you can. I know you're exhausted, so that seems easy, but feeling like poop makes it hard.

I caught it, too. From my 4 year old granddaughter I kept after Christmas. Triple vaxxed here and sick, sick, sick. My first symptom was a sore throat. Then all they symptoms by day 2. I haven't tested, but I've been around no one else at all since well before Christmas, and she tested positive two days after she went home. She showed symptoms while she was here, fever, cough, sore throat, etc. We suspected it had to be Covid before the testing. I felt bad 3 days after she left. She has to have caught it from one of her fully vaxxed parents or my fully vaxxed hubby (it wasn't me, apparently) since we were all she's been around for weeks. Poor little Angel is still sick but not as bad now. She just has a bad gunky cough. She shared with her other sister (also tested positive) 3 days ago. Both her parents had negative antigen tests and never had a symptom. My hubby and I tested negative (antigen) before Christmas Eve and again the day my granddaughter started showing symptoms 5 days later. Both negative. That was the last of our tests we were sitting on since before the current shortage. Not that it matters at this point. We quarantined as if we both have it.

They all mask in public but only just recently upped their masks to kn95's right after Christmas. I gifted the kids a bunch of them.

Omicron can be milder than other variants but it's still a very unpleasant experience. I hope you're all better soon.

[MontanaMama]

109. You most likely had it.

It is SO transmissible. And, like you said SO unpleasant. It sounds like your testing experience was similar to mine in that the antigen tests didn’t pick mine up even with full blown symptoms. I don’t know for sure I have omicron because I haven’t had a test to determine it…I assumed, which may not be a good thing to do. Maybe it was Delta? Crazy that hubs had very mild symptoms, I got hit by the COVID truck and the kiddo has nothing….which I am glad about. I’d go through it all again to keep him safe.

I hope you’re on the mend with no lasting issues.

[Ocelot II]

117. I have read that they don't do individual testing for variants

because in order to do that they have to do a complete genome sequencing from the test samples, which is even more complicated than PCR testing and takes several weeks. They do a sampling of completed PCR tests to estimate whether a variant is present in the area where the tests were taken, and if so what the proportion is. So although they can conclude that there are more Omicron cases than Delta cases in the area where they sampled the tests, they won't know which variant a particular person got unless that person is part of a study.

[BlueMTexpat]

102. May you all pull

through successfully!

It sounds as if you have been doing everything right. You can only control your own behaviors. The scary thing is that, being so ill after having been vaxxed and boosted indicates that you may not have survived at all without them.

The coldness, headache and body aches that you describe are similar to the reactions I had after having my booster. I didn't have a cough though and your symptoms sound much worse.

All my warmest feelings for you all! May you all recover and stay healthy!

[MontanaMama]

110. And to you as well.

Vaccines are truly amazing. I am grateful for them. Thank you for your well wishes.

[wendyb-NC]

104. Sending good vibes for recovery

Hope you and your husband get feeling better quick.

I'm with you I primarily never stopped the prevention strategies, of masking if I go out to the store for supplies, social distancing as is possible, and I am fully vaccinated and boosted. This Omicron variant, must walk through walls. I triple mask with one being a N-95, NIOSH certified.

Take care.

[AllyCat]

105. Oh my goodness MMama! I am so sorry you feel so sick!

Please take care of yourself and get well. Soon. This omicron is just awful. I have symptoms but still negative. Wondering if I should test again. First test a PCR.

[MontanaMama]

111. I'm sorry you're sick! I know how bad it feels. After our experience

you might consider getting a PCR or a POCat a doctor’s office? The DU nurse who counseled me said that some of the antigen tests are not picking up omicron. However, she said that one good antigen test that picks up omicron is calls Abbott BinaxNOW. I’ve seen it online and in a couple stores…maybe try to find that one. Some doctor’s,offices aren’t seeing COVID patients but will refer to urgent care or immediate care facilities equipped to handle us. I hope you can get tested and get to feeling better. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.

[mountain grammy]

106. Seeing this a day later and hoping you're feeling much better

Hope the kiddo stays negative.

[MontanaMama]

112. Thank you mountain grammy.

I tested him again last night and he is still negative. I can’t believe it…but I mask around him and keep plenty of distance between us. I appreciate your well wishes.

[CrispyQ]

108. Positive thoughts & healing vibes for you & your family.

Thanks for the update & the warning. I have family & friends who are not taking this seriously enough.

[MontanaMama]

113. I'm glad you are.

We all need to keep it up for a while longer.

[GoneOffShore]

115. Is it Omicron or Delta? Lots of people here in France still getting Delta.

ICU occupancy in Bouches du Rhones is at 113% despite a nationwide vaccination rate of 89,9% as of today.

[liberal_mama]

118. They aren't telling people in my area what variant we have. My husband tested positive on Sunday and

they didn't say whether it was Delta or Omicron.

[MontanaMama]

119. I don't think they can tell without

blood work, maybe? I know the tests we took don't give us that information. I hope your husband is doing okay and I hope you don't get it!! Stay well.

[YP_Yooper]

126. In the US, they almost never do sequencing testing

to find out which variant you have. Sad, because other countries do.

Read earlier this week, the US only tests around 2-4% of all samples. All the omicron numbers you see are simply estimates and assumptions :/

[Ocelot II]

129. They won't know unless that particular test undergoes genome sequencing,

which takes several weeks and isn't done for individuals, but only to track which variant is present or prevalent in a population. PCR tests don't identify the variant.

[MontanaMama]

120. I wish I knew which one it was that we have.

I don't even know how to get that info. Your vaccination rate is amazing! I hope you can steer clear of catching either of these variants. This is no fun.

[GoneOffShore]

123. Hope you'll be feeling better soon. Even with the vax rate this high France still is getting cases.

Good friends had family - 2 kids, 2 adults - visiting from Italy for Christmas. When they arrived on Christmas Eve, one of the twins had a gastro thing, complete with vomiting. Next day he was fine, but his dad was feverish and had a bit of a cough. Tested positive using a home test kit. The whole family isolated until everyone felt better and tested negative.

And everyone except the kids (9 years old) are triple vaxxed. So, they are thinking that the kids brought it home.

They drove home to Italy three days ago.

[mkell33]

125. Double vaccinated and boosted and got it

I too got a breakthrough infection. Tested negative on 12/31 and positive on 1/2. Honestly, for me it was a minor 3-4 day cold. I tested on day five to see if I could start to go out masked like the CDC said. Still positive yesterday with a very faint bar on the antigen test. I feel totally fine now. I realize how lucky I am. I will test again tomorrow and see. So sorry to hear about the original poster's experience. I am starting to think that this omicron is going to get everyone infected and we can't do much about it. Stay safe folks!

[Lucinda]

127. ❤️ ✿❧🌿❧✿ ❤️

[totodeinhere]

128. I wish you and the rest of your family a very quick recovery.

I'm wondering if you actually had the Delta varianrt and that is why you got so sick. Omicron is dominant now but Delta is still going aroud as well.

[MontanaMama]

130. I wish I knew.

Imagine not being vaccinated? My gawd.