Phoenix popsicle shop sees more business even amid COVID-19 pandemic

PHOENIX - With many places closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it's a little harder than usual to try and escape the heat, as community pools and splash pads are closed.

However, one business has seen an uptick in customers.

"We're probably one of the few people in Arizona that is happier that it is getting warm," said Pam Raphael, who owns AZ Pops in Phoenix.

Raphael says it's been a rough transition in 2020, due to COVID-19.

"What we've been doing is that in order to try to accommodate and keep our families safe, they send us what they want, and we package it and bring it out to their car," said Raphael.

Raphael's popsicle shop makes all of their treats with natural ingredients, and she said some of her local customers have stopped by to show their support.

"The store has gotten busier, although in some ways, in other ways, it hasn't," said Raphael. "We don't have the after school rush. We don't have the evening rush."

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COVID-19 symptoms

Symptoms for coronavirus COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These, of course, are similar to the common cold and flu.

Expect a common cold to start out with a sore or scratchy throat, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose. Flu symptoms are more intense and usually come on suddenly, and can include a high fever.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear more slowly. They usually include fever, a dry cough and noticeable shortness of breath, according to the World Health Organization. A minority of cases develop pneumonia, and the disease is especially worrisome for the elderly and those with other medical problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or heart conditions.

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Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

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