When to get tested after covid exposure
How long should I wait to get tested for COVID-19 after being exposed if I am fully vaccinated?
When is the best time to test for Covid after symptoms start?
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to a person with COVID-19 and I have fully recovered from a COVID-19 infection in the previous 90 days?
Someone who tested positive for COVID-19 with a viral test within the previous 90 days and has subsequently recovered and remains without COVID-19 symptoms does not need to quarantine. However, close contacts with prior COVID-19 infection in the previous 90 days should:
• Wear a mask indoors in public for 14 days after exposure.
• Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and isolate immediately if symptoms develop.
• Consult with a healthcare professional for testing recommendations if new symptoms develop.
What steps should I take after being exposed to COVID-19?
● Stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
● Watch for fever (100.4◦F), cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19
● If possible, stay away from others, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19
Should I get tested for COVID-19 if I develop symptoms?
How long can you test positive for COVID-19?
Should I get tested for COVID-19 if I was in close contact with a positive case?
Should I self-quarantine after being exposed to COVID-19?
How long should I stay in quarantine after exposure to COVID-19?
How should I self-quarantine after being in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19?
For most, self-quarantine can take place at home. If possible, contacts should be asked to voluntarily stay home, monitor themselves, and maintain social distance from others.
The timeframe for self-quarantine is 14 days following the last day of exposure to a patient with COVID-19, to ensure that the contact does not get sick themselves and spread the virus to others. Adherence to self-quarantine instructions may depend on the support provided to contacts.
Self-quarantine requires that a contact remain in a specific room separate from other non-exposed people and pets in the home, and ideally with access to a separate bathroom.
What are the guidelines for close contacts if COVID-19 test results are negative?
If test results are negative:
• Asymptomatic close contacts should continue to self-quarantine for a full 14 days after last
exposure and follow all recommendations of public health authorities.
• Symptomatic close contacts should continue to self-quarantine until symptom resolution as
recommended by public health authorities. A second test and additional medical consultation may
be needed if symptoms do not improve.