When Do You Start Being Contagious With COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionWhen 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.
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 do you stay contagious after testing positive for COVID-19?
If someone is asymptomatic or their symptoms go away, it's possible to remain contagious for at least 10 days after testing positive for COVID-19. People who are hospitalized with severe disease and people with weakened immune systems can be contagious for 20 days or longer.
Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19​
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