Here is what you should know about getting tested for COVID-19 without a prescription.
India is the second-worst-hit country now and the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise. The infectious spread of coronavirus has people worried and contact tracing has become very difficult. It is important to take precautions on our behalf and make responsible decisions.
One problem that people are facing is trying to understand what to do after they’ve come in contact with a COVID-19 positive patient. The tests are only being done at specific centers and at some centers, doctor’s prescription is also required if a person wants to get tested.
To solve this problem, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revised its rules and has introduced the option of on-demand testing. Here is what you should know.
On-demand Testing
Delayed response and not getting tested sooner can contribute to the spread of coronavirus and hence it is important to give an option to people who may carry the risk. People living in containment zones can get tested without a prescription and people under the following categories as well:
- Asymptomatic patients with scheduled surgeries
- People who are at high risk of exposure
- People with respiratory infections
- People with influenza and similar symptoms
When to get tested
There is no need to panic if you catch a fever or cold. Make sure to take proper precautions and wait 2-3 days for the symptoms to subside. If you still suspect that something might be wrong, consult with your doctor and get tested if you feel it is necessary. Avoid self-medication as it does more harm than good.
You can get tested at government as well as private testing centers but make sure it is an ICMR certified center. Be patient with your results as the priority of these centers maybe people with a high risk of infection and pre-existing health conditions. Isolating yourself till the time your test results arrive is advisable.
