Even though you show symptoms of COVID-19, you need to take the test to confirm that you are indeed infected.
There are different options for testing for the coronavirus:
Taking a self-test
A self-test, also known as ‘at home’ or ‘over-the-counter’ test shows your coronavirus status. These tests can be done anywhere and at any time.
Unlike the laboratory COVID-19 tests that can take days before the results are out, self-tests give you results minutes after you take them.
Consider taking a COVID-19 self-test if:
●You are showing symptoms of coronavirus infection.
●You have no symptoms but were exposed to the virus five days ago.
●You are going to an indoor event. Testing just before an event will help you confirm that you are not exposing others to the virus.
You can purchase COVID-19 self-tests from pharmacies or order them online. Ensure you buy only those authorized by the relevant government health regulator or agency like the
FDA in the U.S.
If your local health department allows it, you could also order free COVID-19 tests.
Once in your hands, read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly to ensure you conduct and interpret the test correctly. Call your healthcare provider if you have doubts. Also, make sure you have clean hands before and after the test.
Keep in mind that COVID-19 self-tests do not assess your immunity level against the virus. Similarly, they do not show the antibodies that suggest possible past infection with the coronavirus.
Take a laboratory test
Laboratory coronavirus tests are available at your local health department or designated community testing and care locations.
Follow the guidelines provided by your health department for accessing COVID-19 laboratory testing. You can look for those guidelines from the department’s website or media campaigns.
If you’ve already been sick, retaking the COVID-19 test is crucial to check if the infection is gone completely. You should resume contact with others only after a negative coronavirus test.