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Self-testing for COVID-19

Description

Self-testing for COVID-19 can be done using an over-the-counter (OTC) rapid antigen test to find out if you have COVID-19 infection. An OTC test for COVID-19 can be taken anywhere, including your home, and will provide results within minutes.

The at-home test for COVID-19 allows you to see if you are COVID-19 positive or negative at the time of testing. It does not detect any previous infection or help you find out if you have immunity to COVID-19.

Self-tests for COVID-19 are another way to help stop the spread of COVID-19, along with vaccinations, wearing well-fitting face masks, hand washing, and physical distancing.

Alternative Names

COVID-19 self-test; OTC test for COVID-19; Over-the-counter test for COVID-19; Home test for COVID-19; Rapid antigen test for COVID-19; Rapid at-home test for COVID-19; Coronavirus home test; Self-testing for COVID-19

When to Self-Test

You may want to self-test for COVID-19 if:

Perform the self-test for COVID-19:

Where to Find Self-Tests

You can buy self-tests at your local pharmacies or retail stores. Your health insurance may reimburse the cost of the at-home tests. Contact your insurer to find out more.

If you can't find a self-test when you need one, contact your local health department for community COVID-19 testing locations in your area.

How to Use Self-Tests

Read the instructions carefully before using the test.

You need a nasal swab specimen for the test. Follow the instructions provided with the test kit. Here are the general steps for self-testing.

Understanding Your Results

Taking a self-test for COVID-19 will show either a positive or a negative result.

If your test is negative, it means that the test could not detect any virus. However, you may have an infection but still test negative.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should repeat the test after 48 hours to confirm your status. Contact your health care provider to see if you need to be tested for another viral illness, such as the flu. Follow precautions for how to protect yourself and others.

If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19, test yourself a full 5 days after exposure. Repeat the test 48 hours after the first test. If you are negative, repeat the test a third time after another 48 hours.

If your result is positive, it means that you have COVID-19 infection. Here is what to do if you have COVID-19:

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your provider if you tested positive and:

Having a medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or lung disease can make your symptoms worse and require hospitalization. Being an older adult also increases your risk of severe COVID-19. Inform your provider if you think you may be at risk, and ask if you should receive antiviral treatment.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Testing for COVID-19. www.cdc.gov/covid/testing/index.html. Updated June 25, 2024. Accessed August 21, 2024.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website. COVID-19 over-the-counter tests. www.cms.gov/covidotctestsprovider. Updated January 18, 2024. Accessed August 21, 2024.

US Food & Drug Administration website. At-home COVID-19 diagnostic tests: frequently asked questions. www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-COVID-19-and-medical-devices/home-COVID-19-diagnostic-tests-frequently-asked-questions. Updated March 9, 2024. Accessed August 21, 2024.


Review Date: 2/22/2023
Reviewed By: Frank D. Brodkey, MD, FCCM, Associate Professor, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. Editorial update 08/21/2024.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.