I feel sick or was exposed to COVID-19. When should I test?
Take steps now to prevent possible spread, including staying away from others.
If you feel sick or have symptoms: Get tested immediately.
If you were exposed to COVID-19: Get tested at least five full days after your last exposure – even if you don’t develop symptoms.
Need to go to a testing location?
- Most doctor’s offices offer testing on-site. Cost may vary depending on insurance status.
- If you don’t have a provider, check with your local health department or find a community health center near you. Health centers provide care to patients regardless of ability to pay.
- Some retail pharmacies offer testing, such as CVS Health or Walgreens. Check with the pharmacy on cost.
Understanding My Results
What if my test was positive?
Here’s what you should do if you receive a positive COVID-19 test result:
- Follow current CDC Respiratory Virus Guidelines.
- Tell your close contacts that you have COVID-19.
- 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.
What if my test was negative?
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.
More resources
Download and share our testing guidance flyer
- Prevention actions
- Knowing when to test
- Choosing the right test
More languages: Spanish
More testing flyers to download and share
Still have questions about testing? Visit the CDC’s website for the latest information.