Testing is an important way to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.  If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should get tested so that you can avoid infecting others.

A COVID-19 test is important when:

• There has been contact with someone who has COVID-19 and
  •  5 days has passed since it happened
  •  Workplaces, school, or healthcare sites require screening
  • Travel occurs, before leaving and when arriving home
  • A healthcare professional or public health official asks for it

Types of COVID-19 Tests

Viral tests – This type of test will tell whether a person has an active infection at the time of the test. There are two main types:

• Laboratory Test
  • Sample can either be a nasal swab or saliva
  • Results usually in 1-3 days
  • Results are reliable for people with and without symptoms
  • No follow-up test required
  • Common example: PCR test
• Rapid Test
  • Sample is usually a nasal swab
  • Results usually in 15-30 minutes
  • Results may be less reliable for people without symptoms
  • Follow-up test may be required
  • Common example: Antigen test

Antibody test – This blood test may be able to tell if there has been a past COVID-19 infection.  This test may also be called a “serology test.”

What Does a Negative Test Result Mean?

If you receive a negative result, that means that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 was not found in your sample. A negative test does not completely rule out infection.

Last Updated October 2022