When Can Someone Infected With COVID-19 Start Spreading The Virus?
COVID-19Common questionWhen can someone infected with COVID-19 start spreading the virus?Researchers estimate that people who get infected with the coronavirus can spread it to others 2 to 3 days before symptoms start and are most contagious 1 to 2 days before they feel sick.
Can an infected person spread COVID-19 before showing symptoms?
An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 2 days before the person has any symptoms or tests positive. People who have COVID-19 don't always have obvious symptoms. A person is still considered a close contact even if they were wearing a mask while they were around someone with COVID-19.
COVID-19 Contact Tracing
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
What is the incubation period of COVID-19?
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after someone is exposed to the virus and can include fever, chills, and cough. Some people who are infected may not have symptoms, which is why everyone should take everyday preventive actions.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | Disease or Condition of the Week
When do you start being contagious with COVID-19?
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.
COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation