COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know
Related Pages
When you get tested:
- Make sure to test at the right time
- Choose the right type of test for your circumstance
- Follow test directions as recommended by FDA
If you do not, your results may be less likely to correctly indicate whether you have COVID-19 or not.
On This Page
- When to Get Tested
- Types of Tests
- Choosing a COVID-19 Test
- Positive Test Result
- Negative Test Result
- Testing for Antibodies
When to Get Tested for COVID-19
Key times to get tested:
- If you have symptoms, test immediately.
- If you were exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before testing. If you test too early, you may be more likely to get an inaccurate result.
- If you are in certain high-risk settings, you may need to test as part of a screening testing program.
- Consider testing before contact with someone at high risk for severe COVID-19, especially if you are in an area with a medium or high COVID-19 Community Level.
For guidance on using tests to determine which mitigations are recommended as you recover from COVID-19, go to Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19.
COVID-19 Tests or Treatment
Types of Tests
Viral tests look for a current infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, by testing specimens from your nose or mouth. There are two main types of viral tests: nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and antigen tests. In certain circumstances, one test type may be recommended over the other. All tests should be performed following FDA’s requirements.
- NAATs, such as PCR-based tests, are most often performed in a laboratory. They are typically the most reliable tests for people with or without symptoms. These tests detect viral genetic material, which may stay in your body for up to 90 days after you test positive. Therefore, you should not use a NAAT if you have tested positive in the last 90 days.
- Antigen tests* are rapid tests which produce results in 15-30 minutes. They are less reliable than NAATs, especially for people who do not have symptoms. A single, negative antigen test result does not rule out infection. To best detect infection, a negative antigen test should be repeated at least 48 hours apart (known as serial testing). Sometimes a follow-up NAAT may be recommended to confirm an antigen test result.
*Self-tests, or at-home tests, are usually antigen tests that can be taken anywhere without having to go to a specific testing site. Follow FDA and manufacturer’s instructions, including for the number of times you may need to test. Multiple negative test results increase the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
- You can order free self-test kits at COVIDtests.govor purchase tests online, in pharmacies, and retail stores.
- You can also visit FDA’s websiteto see a list of authorized tests.
- As noted in the labeling for authorized over-the-counter antigen tests: Negative results should be treated as presumptive (meaning that they are preliminary results). Negative results do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions, including infection control decisions. Please see FDA guidance on the use of at-home COVID-19 antigen tests.
About Self-Tests
I have not had COVID-19 or I have not had a positive test within the past 90 days.
You may choose NAAT or antigen tests.
If you use an antigen test and your result is negative, multiple tests may be necessary.
I tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days.
My first positive test result was within:
30 days or less
I have symptoms
Use antigen tests. If negative, multiple tests may be necessary.
I do not have symptoms
Testing is not recommended to detect a new infection.
My first positive test result was within:
31-90 days
I have symptoms
Use antigen tests. If negative, multiple tests may be necessary.
I do not have symptoms
Use antigen tests. If negative, multiple tests may be necessary
After a positive test result, you may continue to test positive for some time after. You may continue to test positive on antigen tests for a few weeks after your initial positive. You may continue to test positive on NAATs for up to 90 days. Reinfections can occur within 90 days, which can make it hard to know if a positive test indicates a new infection. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your individual circumstances.
Interpreting Your Results
If Your COVID-19 Test is
Positive
Any positive COVID-19 test means the virus was detected and you have an infection.
- Isolate and take precautions including wearing a high-quality mask to protect others from getting infected.
- Tell people you had recent contact with that they may have been exposed.
- Monitor your symptoms. If you have any emergency warning signs, seek emergency care immediately.
- Consider contacting a healthcare provider, community health center, or pharmacy to learn about treatment options that may be available to you. Treatment must be started within several days after you first develop symptoms to be effective.
- You are more likely to get very sick if you are an older adult or have an underlying medical condition. Possible treatment may be available for you.
If Your COVID-19 Test is
Negative
A negative COVID-19 test means the test did not detect the virus, but this doesn’t rule out that you could have an infection. If you used an antigen test, see FDA instructions on repeat testing.
- If you have symptoms:
- You may have COVID-19, but tested before the virus was detectable, or you may have another illness.
- Take general public health precautions to prevent spreading an illness to others.
- Contact a healthcare provider if you have any questions about your test result or if your symptoms worsen.
- If you do not have symptoms, but were exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19, you should continue to take recommended steps after exposure.
- If you do not have symptoms and you have not been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19, you may return to normal activities.
- Continue to take steps to protect yourself and others, including monitoring for symptoms. Get tested again if symptoms appear.
Need additional help? Use the Viral Testing Tool to get personalized recommendations and resources.
Testing for Antibodies
Antibody or serology tests look for antibodies in your blood that fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins created by your immune system after you have been infected or have been vaccinated against an infection. They can help protect you from infection, or severe illness if you do get infected, for a period of time afterward. How long this protection lasts is different for each disease and each person.
Antibody tests should not be used to diagnose a current infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. An antibody test may not show if you have a current infection, because it can take 1 to 3 weeks after the infection for your body to make antibodies.
Science at CDC
Scientific evidence and studies behind specific COVID-19 guidance and recommendations
MMWR: Minimizing the impact of COVID-19 on Individual persons, Communities, and Health Care Systems
Difference Between Flu and COVID-19
Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2, and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. You cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 by symptoms alone because some of the symptoms are the same. Some PCR tests can differentiate between flu and COVID-19 at the same time. If one of these tests is not available, many testing locations provide flu and COVID-19 tests separately. Talk to a healthcare provider about getting tested for both flu and COVID-19 if you have symptoms.
Learn more
Resources
Professional Resources on Testing: Healthcare Workers | Health Departments | Labs
- COVID-19 Testing Resources [1 page, 59 KB]
- Don’t Delay: Test Soon and Treat Early [1 page, 361 KB]
- How to Collect an Anterior Nasal Swab Specimen for COVID-19 Testing [2 pages, 372 KB]
- How to Collect a Nasal Mid-Turbinate Swab Specimen for COVID-19 Testing [2 pages, 4 MB]
- Using Your Self-Test [1 page, 295 KB]
- Using Your Self-Test (Customizable File) [1 page, 279 KB]
FAQs
How does COVID-19 affect your health? ›
During the COVID-19 pandemic, you may experience stress, anxiety, fear, sadness and loneliness. And mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, can worsen.
How long will I test positive for Covid after having it? ›If negative, multiple tests may be necessary. After a positive test result, you may continue to test positive for some time after. You may continue to test positive on antigen tests for a few weeks after your initial positive. You may continue to test positive on NAATs for up to 90 days.
How long are you contagious Omicron? ›We know that people tend to be most infectious early in the course of their infection. With Omicron, most transmission occurs during the one to two days before onset of symptoms, and in the two to three days afterwards.
What is the greatest challenge that you have experienced because of the COVID-19 pandemic? ›Social isolation is one of the biggest mental health challenges we are facing with this crisis. Many people are living alone or away from their support systems, which are usually essential wellbeing boosters in a time of crisis.
What helps COVID recovery? ›...
Treating a high temperature
- get lots of rest.
- drink plenty of fluids (water is best) to avoid dehydration – drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear.
- take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable.
- Pace yourself - plan what you're going to do and don't over-exert yourself.
- Try to break tasks which feel difficult down into smaller chunks, and alternate easier and harder activities.
- Consider the best time of the day to do certain activities based on your energy levels.
People are most contagious with COVID-19 during the first 5 days of their illness. Many people don't have any symptoms during the first 2 to 3 days of their illness. This is why COVID-19 outbreaks are so hard to contain. On average, people are contagious for 5 to 10 days.
How long does Covid stay in your body? ›Most people with COVID-19 get better within a few days to a few weeks after infection, so at least four weeks after infection is the start of when post-COVID conditions could first be identified. Anyone who was infected can experience post-COVID conditions.
How long do Omicron symptoms last? ›How long do omicron symptoms last? Most people who test positive with any variant of COVID-19 typically experience some symptoms for a couple weeks.
Can you get Covid twice? ›Reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 means a person was infected, recovered, and then later became infected again. After recovering from COVID-19, most individuals will have some protection from repeat infections. However, reinfections do occur after COVID-19.
What are Omicron symptoms if vaccinated? ›
What are the symptoms of Omicron? Symptoms of Omicron can be similar to the original COVID-19 virus and other variants, which can include a combination of the following: fever, cough, congestion, runny nose, headache, sore throat, muscle pains/aches and fatigue.
Can you have Covid and test negative? ›A negative result means it's likely you are not infectious. But a negative test is not a guarantee you do not have COVID-19 and there's still a chance you may be infectious. You should follow advice on how to avoid catching and spreading the virus.
How should you deal with difficulties and problems in your life? ›- Make A Plan. While you don't know what is going to happen in the future, you can always plan ahead. ...
- Know You're Not Alone. Every person in this world has their low points. ...
- Ask For Help. ...
- Feel Your Feelings. ...
- Accept Support. ...
- Help Others. ...
- Think Big. ...
- Positive Mindset.
Take care of yourself, eat regularly, exercise, sleep enough and reduce all other sources of stress. Do things that give you back the control of your own life. Dedicate time to activities that improve your mood.
How does this pandemic affect your thoughts and feelings about yourself? ›Even if you're at home with family, the reality of social isolation can still trigger loneliness, sadness, and anxiety. You may also find that spending all day, every day with your family is stressful and creates challenges, no matter how much you love them.
What food is good for COVID? ›Kiwis, berries, oranges, sweet potatoes, peppers—these all have lots of vitamin C, which support immune health. Put them in a salad or smoothie. If you feel well enough, eat protein. Protein improves healing capacity—after all, it is the building block of all cells, including immune cells.
What is the fastest way to heal with COVID? ›- Keep a daily routine, such as taking a shower and getting dressed.
- Take breaks from COVID-19 news and social media.
- Eat healthy meals and drink plenty of fluids.
- Stay physically active.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid use of drugs, tobacco and alcohol.
- Exercise and/or stay active. ...
- Reduce or cut out alcohol consumption. ...
- Turn off the screens. ...
- Do relaxing, soothing things just before bedtime. ...
- Get out of the bedroom. ...
- Avoid daytime naps. ...
- Try breathing exercises. ...
- Optimize your sleep environment.
...
It's important to:
- eat well.
- have a healthy sleep routine.
- drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Mild COVID-19 means you have symptoms — such as cough, sore throat, and fatigue — but no shortness of breath. Most of the time, people can treat mild COVID-19 at home. There are treatments specific to COVID-19 for certain people, so contact your healthcare provider to discuss your options.
What is Covid fatigue like? ›
Symptoms of Post-COVID fatigue generally mirror those of chronic fatigue syndrome. They can include physical, psychological, and behavioral complications, including: Persistent Tired and Sleepy Feeling. Mild to Severe Headaches.
Why do I keep testing positive for Covid? ›Positive COVID-19 Test: A Sign of Viral Shedding
Viral shedding is the release of a virus as it multiplies inside your body. If you are shedding virus, it means you can pass it on and infect other people. Testing positive for COVID-19 is an indication of viral shedding.
If you tested positive for COVID-19 but have not had any symptoms: Isolate for at least 5 days after you tested positive for COVID-19.
Can you test negative for Covid after 3 days? ›One study from researchers at Johns Hopkins suggested that COVID-19 PCR tests conducted 3 to 5 days after a person is exposed that return a negative result shouldn't be relied on alone to gauge infection status, and that in addition, the clinical and epidemiologic situation should be carefully evaluated by health ...
How long does Covid last on blankets? ›A study published in found that at room temperature, COVID-19 was detectable on fabric for up to two days, compared to seven days for plastic and metal. However, when it was exposed to high heat, the virus became inactive within five minutes.
Does Omicron cause long Covid? ›Scientists have just begun to compare variants head to head, with varying results. While one recent study in The Lancet suggests that omicron is less likely to cause long covid, another found the same rate of neurological problems after omicron and delta infections.
How long does Covid cough last? ›In the case of COVID-19, this cough could last for as long as six months after the viral infection, especially if the patient contracted Omicron because it is more airway dependent than the original strain.
What does your throat feel like with COVID? ›Well, it can feel exactly the same as a cold, according to Brian Curtis, MD, vice president of Clinical Specialty Services for OSF HealthCare. That makes it hard to tell the difference between a cold and a mild case of COVID. It's even harder to tell the difference knowing that sore throat is a COVID symptom.
How do you treat Omicron at home? ›Take proper rest and treat the mild symptoms at home and be in a strict self-quarantine for 7 days to avoid further spread. Currently, there are no specific drugs and medication are available to prevent or treat Omicron variant of COVID-19.
Does Omicron start with a sore throat? ›Compared to other SARS-CoV-2 variants, the Omicron variant is associated with generally less severe symptoms that may include fatigue, cough, headache, sore throat or a runny nose.
Do dogs get Covid? ›
The virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals during close contact. Pets worldwide, including cats and dogs, have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. The risk of pets spreading COVID-19 to people is low.
How many times can I catch Covid? ›Can you get Covid-19 twice? Yes, it is possible to get Covid-19 two, three or even more times. Covid reinfections have become more common because of the Omicron variant, and because immunity from previous infection and immunisation has reduced over time.
How can you tell if you have Omicron or Delta? ›Of the more-frequent symptoms, loss or altered sense of smell, sneezing, runny nose, brain fog, eye soreness, headache, fever, and dizziness were reported significantly more often during Delta prevalence, while sore throat and hoarse voice were significantly more often reported during Omicron.
What is a COVID cough like? ›If you're recovering from coronavirus, you might find that you have a cough for some time. You might have a dry cough, or you might have a productive cough, which produces phlegm. If you have a cough with phlegm, your breathing might be noisier than normal, and you may feel like it's more difficult to breathe.
How long test positive COVID Omicron? ›During the Omicron BA. 1 period, 80.2% of symptomatic persons with COVID-19 returning for repeated testing were RAT–positive after 5 days, and 34.9% were still positive after 10 days, regardless of vaccine status.
Can you get Covid 3 times? ›In fact, with the highly infectious omicron variant in circulation, it's becoming less unusual to have COVID-19 three times — or even four.
Can a rapid test give a false positive? ›There is a chance that any test can give you a false positive result. If you have any doubt about your rapid antigen test result, it is recommended to discuss your results with a healthcare professional to determine next steps which may involve a confirmatory PCR test.
Can a person be immune to Covid? ›Getting COVID-19 offers some natural protection or immunity from reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 . It's estimated that getting COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination both result in a low risk of another infection with a similar variant for at least six months.
How can I solve my problems? ›- Step 1: Identify and define the problem. State the problem as clearly as possible. ...
- Step 2: Generate possible solutions. ...
- Step 3: Evaluate alternatives. ...
- Step 4: Decide on a solution. ...
- Step 5: Implement the solution. ...
- Step 6: Evaluate the outcome.
Challenging experiences shapes leaders, survivors and resilient souls who have come from the darkest depths and back. They realize what is most important to them and they stick to that so they can do what really matters to them, and what makes them happy.
How does Covid affect mental health? ›
Information overload, rumors and misinformation can make your life feel out of control and make it unclear what to do. During the COVID-19 pandemic, you may experience stress, anxiety, fear, sadness and loneliness. And mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, can worsen.
How do you help someone with Covid? ›- Help the person who is sick follow their doctor's instructions for care and medicine. ...
- See if over-the-counter medicines for fever help the person feel better.
- Make sure the person who is sick drinks a lot of fluids and rests.
...
Interview With a Mental Health Professional
- Self-care, not school work, should be your No. 1 priority. ...
- Set healthy boundaries with your loved ones. ...
- Set boundaries with yourself. ...
- Create a happy workspace. ...
- Follow a daily routine.
“20% of college students say their mental health has worsened…” Read more. “Nearly three in 10 (29%) say their child is “already experiencing harm” to their emotional or mental health because of social distancing and closures.
How do you take care of yourself in the time of COVID-19? ›Take a deep breath, stretch out or meditate. Try to eat healthy, balanced meals, exercise regularly, sleep a lot, and avoid harmful substances. Have some time for relaxing. Try to combine things you have to do with activities you enjoy.
Why do I keep testing positive for Covid? ›Positive COVID-19 Test: A Sign of Viral Shedding
Viral shedding is the release of a virus as it multiplies inside your body. If you are shedding virus, it means you can pass it on and infect other people. Testing positive for COVID-19 is an indication of viral shedding.
Thus, if the person being tested has recently had COVID-19 and completed their period of isolation, it is possible for that person to receive a negative antigen test result and a positive confirmatory NAAT, potentially indicating a persistent detection of SARS-CoV-2 after recovery from COVID-19.
Can U Get Covid back to back? ›Reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 means a person was infected, recovered, and then later became infected again. After recovering from COVID-19, most individuals will have some protection from repeat infections. However, reinfections do occur after COVID-19.
Are you still contagious after 10 days of COVID? ›People with COVID-19 can spread the virus to other people starting two days before they develop symptoms (or 2 days before the date of their positive test if they do not have symptoms) through 10 days after they develop symptoms (or 10 days after the date of their positive test if they do not have symptoms).
Can you have COVID and test negative? ›A negative result means it's likely you are not infectious. But a negative test is not a guarantee you do not have COVID-19 and there's still a chance you may be infectious. You should follow advice on how to avoid catching and spreading the virus.
Can you test negative for COVID after 3 days? ›
One study from researchers at Johns Hopkins suggested that COVID-19 PCR tests conducted 3 to 5 days after a person is exposed that return a negative result shouldn't be relied on alone to gauge infection status, and that in addition, the clinical and epidemiologic situation should be carefully evaluated by health ...