Testing for COVID-19

Here’s what you should do if you receive a positive COVID-19 test result: 

1. Follow current CDC Respiratory Virus Guidelines.
2. Tell your close contacts that you have COVID-19.
3. Wear a well-fitting mask if you must be around others.

Treatments are available, and research shows they decrease your risk of hospitalization and death — if you get them in time. Don’t wait to see if your symptoms get worse. If you feel sick, even a little, take steps to get treated now. Getting treatment may cost nothing, so there’s no reason to delay. 

Note: Seek medical care immediately if you have trouble breathing or experience other warning signs.

While a positive test confirms you have an infection, a negative test only shows that it didn’t detect the virus but does not rule out an infection. So, here’s what you should consider after receiving a negative COVID-19 test result using an at-home test.

If you have symptoms:

• Test again in 48 hours.
• Consider talking with a healthcare provider. You may need to get tested for other respiratory illnesses.
• Follow current CDC Respiratory Virus Guidelines. 

If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19: 

• Test again in 48 hours.
• If your second test is also negative, test again 48 hours later for a total of three tests.

Resume regular activities if: 

• You were tested for another reason, like workplace screening.
• You do not have known or suspected contact with someone who has COVID-19.
• You have no symptoms.