Dubbed by public health experts “the good early warning system,” COVID-19 testing remains one of the most crucial ways to contain and mitigate the spread of the disease—all the more so now, as the Omicron variant threat looms large.
Below are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19 testing to give you a better idea of it.
Q: Who Should be Tested for COVID-19?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get tested for COVID-19 if you have any of the following conditions or circumstances:
- You have symptoms;
- You have recent exposure to the virus, especially if you belong to a high-risk group (e.g., older adults or people who are immunocompromised or living with a chronic medical condition, such heart disease, diabetes, lung disease);
- You are not fully vaccinated and are prioritized for expanded community screening for COVID-19;
- You have been asked or referred to get tested by your workplace, school, healthcare provider, or by your state, tribal, local, or territorial health department.
Q: What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
According to the CDC, COVID-19 may include the following signs and symptoms, which typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure:
- Cough (typically dry and persistent)
- Diarrhea
- Feeling Unusually Weak or Fatigued
- Fever, chills or shivering
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nasal congestion and/or runny nose
- New loss of smell or taste
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
Although many of these symptoms are common among COVID-19 positive patients, they can vary dramatically from one person to another. Symptoms can also be similar to those of other types of respiratory tract infections, such as the flu, which can make it difficult to diagnose the disease based on symptoms alone. COVID testing is the only way to confirm whether you have COVID-19.
If you develop the following signs and symptoms, which indicate a medical emergency, you should call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room immediately.
- Difficulty breathing (respiratory distress)
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Bluish lips or face
Q: Do I Still Need to Get Tested for COVID-19 Even if I Don’t Have Any Symptoms?
Reports show that as many as 31 percent of people with COVID-19 are asymptomatic and may be responsible for significant transmission of the virus.
If you suspect you have been exposed to COVID-19, you should observe the correct precautionary measures. If you are fully vaccinated but have been exposed to COVID-19, it is recommended that you get tested three to five days after exposure. If you are not fully vaccinated, you should quarantine and get tested immediately after being identified and get tested again in five to seven days after your last exposure.
Q: What Types of Testing Are Available?
The following are the different options available for COVID-19 testing:
PCR test– This works by detecting genetic material of the virus. It is highly sensitive to even very small amounts of the virus. Test results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.
Rapid antigen test (lateral flow test)- This detects the presence or absence of the SARS-CoV-2 and provides quick results (available within 15 to 30 minutes). While a rapid antigen test is a useful screening test, it is generally less sensitive compared to a PCR test.
Antibody test (serology test) – This detects the presence of antibodies (proteins carried by your immune system) in your blood. Results of this test are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.
Q: What Happens if I Test Positive?
If you test positive for COVID, you should take the necessary steps to prevent other people from getting infected. To be sure, ask your healthcare provider about the safest course of action.
If you test negative for COVID, you were probably not infected at the time the sample was collected. You should still continue to take suitable steps to protect yourself and others.
COVID Testing in Garfield, NJ
If you think you need to get tested for COVID-19, don’t delay— visit us here at My Doc Urgent Care today. We offer drive-through COVID-19 testing as part of our effort to help protect the health and well-being of the residents of Garfield and its neighboring areas
No appointment is necessary. Just please proceed to the temporary VIP drive-through window at the rear entrance to our building. You may also wish to download, print, and bring a completed intake form with you. Simply visit us during our usual business hours. If you need more information, call us at (862) 295-3501.
