COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. There are two types of tests for this virus:

• A viral test tells you if you have a current infection. Viral tests can either be rapid tests or laboratory tests:
  • Rapid tests can be done in minutes. They are often antigen tests, which look for specific proteins from the virus. Some rapid tests are self-tests which you can do at home.
  • Laboratory tests can take days to complete and include PCR tests.
• An antibody (serology) test might tell you if you had a past infection.

If you need a COVID-19 test, you can:

• Buy a self-test online or at a store. Make sure that the test you buy has been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• Check your state or local health department's website for information on testing in your area.
• Contact your health care provider.

Even if your COVID-19 viral test is negative (the test did not detect the virus), you should still take steps to protect yourself and others.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention