How Long After Exposure To Covid Should I Get Tested
Get tested 5-7 days after their first exposure. A person with COVID-19 is considered infectious starting 2 days before they develop symptoms, or 2 days before the date of their positive test if they do not have symptoms. Get tested again 5-7 days after the end of isolation for the person with COVID-19.
Can someone test negative and later test positive on a viral test for COVID-19?
Yes, it is possible. You may test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during this illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. Even if you test negative, you still should take steps to protect yourself and others. See Testing for Current Infection for more information.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) frequently asked questions
How long does it take to show symptoms after you have been exposed to COVID-19?
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. If you have fever, cough, or other symptoms, you might have COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) frequently asked questions
How long is the incubation period for COVID-19?
- The incubation period for COVID-19. Given that the incubation period can be up to 14 days, CDC recommends conducting screening testing at least weekly.
Overview of Testing for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
How long should I wait to get tested for COVID-19 after being exposed if I am fully vaccinated?
- If you have been fully vaccinated and around someone who has COVID-19 (close contact), you do not need to stay away from others (quarantine), or be restricted from work unless you develop COVID-like symptoms. We recommend that you get tested 3-5 days after your last exposure to someone with COVID-19.
Contact Tracer's Interview Tool: Notifying People About an Exposure to COVID-19