COVID-19 testing
If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or you have symptoms, request a test from your health care provider or use an over-the-counter antigen test purchased at a local pharmacy.
When to get tested?
- Get tested immediately if you are having any symptoms of COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status.
PCR and antigen tests
Molecular tests are also known as PCR tests. The PCR molecular test is accurate and usually does not need to be repeated. Average turnaround time is one to three days, depending on lab processing.
Antigen tests are also known as rapid tests or at-home tests. With antigen tests, positive results are usually accurate, though negative tests may need to be confirmed. Average turnaround time is quite fast, ranging 15 minutes to one hour, depending on the test and/or tester.
If you test positive with a PCR or antigen test, follow isolation guidance on our COVID isolation page. Reach out to your health care with any questions concerning your care, especially if you are at higher risk of getting more sick with COVID-19.
Call 911 if you start to have emergency warning signs. If someone if showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone.
Call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
While waiting for your test results, continue to practice physical distancing, wear a face covering when near other people who are not in your household, and wash your hands often. If you do not have symptoms and have not been advised by a medical professional to quarantine at home, you may resume your normal activities. If you are experiencing symptoms, stay home, and keep your distance from others. For more information, see our Isolation page
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