To help curb the spread of the virus at any time of year—but especially headed into the holiday season—experts want to make sure that people know the current guidelines for COVID testing.
Here’s what you need to know about getting tested for COVID, including how the guidelines differ depending on your vaccination status.
When Should I Test?
The guidelines for testing change as scientists learn more about the COVID virus, but as of the beginning of November 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people get tested after a known or suspected exposure. However, the timing of the test will depend on whether a person is vaccinated or not.
If you’re vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting tested between five and seven days after you came into contact with a person that may have or has confirmed COVID.
Jeffrey Klausner, MD, board-certified internist, infectious disease specialist, and Curative Independent Medical Director, tells Verywell that providers generally wait to test “at least 48 to 72 hours” after a patient has had a known exposure because “it takes a bit of time for the virus to reach a point of detection” after someone has been exposed to the virus.
If you’re unvaccinated, the CDC recommends testing immediately after a known exposure.
Klausner says that someone who is unvaccinated and has had a known exposure to COVID “should quarantine, avoid contact with others, and consistently wear a mask so they do not spread infections to others until they obtain their test result.”
Which Test Should I Use?
Greg Schrank, MD, MPH, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and hospital epidemiologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center, tells Verywell that rapid antigen tests and PCR lab tests can both be used to detect COVID-19 infection, but there are pros and cons of each to consider.
Research has suggested that around 59% of COVID-19 transmission is asymptomatic, with 35% coming from presymptomatic people (before they feel sick) and 24% from people who never develop symptoms.
“PCR tests are able to detect even very low quantities of virus and have a higher sensitivity as compared to rapid tests," says Schrank. However, “they have the disadvantage of taking longer—in some cases up to a few days to result.”
Rapid antigen tests are faster and easy to administer, allowing people to get results back as soon as the same day. Robert G. Lahita, MD, PhD, director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Disease at Saint Joseph Health, tells Verywell that a rapid test “can be done within minutes of exposure.” However, a caveat is that these tests may not detect low levels of the virus, as a PCR test can.
“Both types of tests are useful, and I would encourage individuals who are testing because of symptoms or an exposure to use the test most quickly available to them," Schrank says.
If someone tested negative for COVID-19 despite having COVID-19 symptoms, Schrank recommends a second antigen test 24 to 36 hours later and a PCR test as a follow-up.
Tips for Navigating the Holidays
If you’re planning on gathering indoors for the holidays, Klausner says that there are steps that you can take to help keep your loved ones safe. He recommends ventilating your spaces by opening windows, wearing masks, and getting vaccinated.
“Vaccination remains the safest and best way to protect yourself and others," says Klausner. “Nearly four out of five Americans have at least one dose.”
Schrank says that “the safest way to enjoy the holidays together with friends and family is for everyone who is eligible to be fully vaccinated." Importantly, he says it’s “best way to protect young children who are not yet eligible [for vaccination] or more vulnerable adults like the elderly or immunocompromised that remain at higher risk even after vaccination.”
The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.
