Here is what you should know about getting tested for COVID-19.
COVID-19 testing is being done more efficiently and at a larger scale throughout the world to prevent the spread of the virus and for better data accumulation. There are many ways to get tested for the virus as government, private and commercial labs are collecting samples from people who suspect the infection. At one point, it was necessary to get a doctor’s prescription but many states have now arranged for free coronavirus testing camps for people who think they are experiencing the symptoms of the virus.
The process of getting tested for COVID-19 may look scary, especially when it is your first time. Here are the important things to know before your test and what can you expect from the experience.
Process of COVID-19 test
When you get tested for coronavirus, a 6-inch long swab is interested through your nose till the nasopharyngeal fluid sample is collected and is removed after 15 seconds. The same process may be repeated for your second nostril to collect enough sample for testing.
The sample is then sent to the lab for testing and you can expect the results in 24-48 hours.
Precautions to take while waiting for results
Till the time your result comes, make sure you keep yourself in isolation if you suspect any symptoms. It is best to maintain distance from people, especially family members till your results come out negative.
Make sure to inform people you have met in the past few days that you have been experiencing symptoms. If your test comes out positive, inform the people you have come in contact with and tell them to get tested for the virus.
The truth about the negative test result
It is important to understand that a negative test result does not indicate that you are safe from the virus; it simply means that you weren’t infected at the time of testing. You can also catch the virus after getting tested and may even pass it on if symptoms take time to appear.
To make sure that you stay safe, make sure you only head out when absolutely necessary, take proper precautions in public places and maintain social distance to stay safe during this pandemic.
