COVID-19 Testing: Everything You Need to Know

If you're feeling under the weather, you might be worried that you have COVID-19. The only way to know for sure is to get tested. At-home tests can tell you if you have the virus right now, while specialized antibody tests can show if you've had it in the past. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about COVID-19 testing.

When to Get Tested for COVID-19

According to the CDC, you should get tested for COVID-19 if:

• You have symptoms of COVID-19, such as a dry cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of smell or taste, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or chills.

• You've had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. You should wait at least 5 full days after the contact before getting tested.

• You're traveling outside of the U.S. and need to follow the testing requirements of your destination.

Types of COVID-19 Tests

There are several types of tests used to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19:

• PCR tests: Also known as molecular tests, these are considered the "gold standard" of COVID-19 testing. They use a nasal swab to collect a sample and look for the virus's genetic material.

• Antigen tests: These rapid tests, often called "self tests," look for COVID-19 antigens using a nasal swab. You can get results in just a few minutes.

• Antibody tests: These blood tests can show if you've had COVID-19 in the recent past by detecting antibodies your body made to fight off the virus.

How to Get Tested for COVID-19

You have a few options for getting a COVID-19 test:

• At-home tests: The FDA has approved many at-home antigen tests, such as BinaxNOW, Ellume, QuickVue, On/Go, and Flowflex. You can buy these online or in stores.

• Testing locations: You can schedule a PCR test at places like doctor's offices, urgent care centers, hospitals, pharmacies, and health departments. Some locations may require an appointment.

The cost of a COVID-19 test varies depending on factors like the type of test, where you get it, and your insurance coverage. Check with your health plan or the testing center for specific pricing.

What to Do With Your COVID-19 Test Results

If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home and isolate yourself from others to avoid spreading the virus. Notify anyone you've been in close contact with and let your doctor know, especially if you're at high risk for complications.

If you test negative but have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you may want to take another test to confirm the result. False negatives can occur, particularly with antigen tests.

After recovering from COVID-19, you may continue to test positive for up to 90 days, especially with PCR tests. If you develop new symptoms during this time, consult your doctor to determine if you have a reinfection.

For more information on COVID-19 testing, visit:

• CDC: COVID-19 Testing Overview

• FDA: Coronavirus Disease 2019 Testing Basics

• WHO: COVID-19 Testing Q&A