It’s been already 3 years since COVID-19 hit the world. The loss of lives all over the world is still left our hair standing whenever we heard the numbers. Despite efforts, many nations continue to suffer and work tirelessly test to recover from the impact. The recurring outbreaks of the virus remain a cause for concern.
No doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of our daily lives, but one thing remains the same – the importance of staying safe and healthy. The continual new viruses in the wind are enough reasons why it is still important to follow precautions for COVID-19. If you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it’s important to know when to get tested and retested. Here’s a friendly guide on what to do in such situations.
When to Get Tested?
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The CDC recommends that you get tested as soon as possible, usually within 5-7 days after exposure. To protect yourself and others, make sure to self-quarantine for 14 days from the date of exposure. If you develop symptoms, get tested immediately. After your first test, even if the result is negative, it’s recommended to get retested within 5-7 days. Learn more about this in detail:
Close Contact with a Positive Case:
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, the CDC recommends that you get tested as soon as possible, usually within 5-7 days after exposure. It is important to self-quarantine for 14 days from the date of exposure and to get tested immediately if you develop symptoms. Even if your first test comes back negative, it is recommended to get retested within 5-7 days.
Symptoms of COVID-19:
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to get tested immediately. If your test result is positive, self-quarantine for at least 10 days after the symptoms first appeared and until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours. If the test result is negative, it is still recommended to get retested within 5-7 days.
Healthcare Workers and First Responders:
If you are on the front lines and have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it is important to get tested immediately and self-quarantine for 14 days. If your test result is positive, self-quarantine for at least 10 days after the symptoms first appeared and until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours. If the test result is negative, it is still recommended to get retested within 5-7 days.
How long after COVID exposure could you test positive?
According to the CDC who is the nation’s leading science-based, data-driven, service organization that protects the public’s health states that the incubation period for COVID-19 can range from two to 14 days. Currently, the agency recommends a quarantine of five days for those who have not received the booster shot or are not vaccinated. If someone has been exposed to the virus, they should get tested five days after exposure or if they start experiencing symptoms.
For those who have received the booster shot or are fully vaccinated, there is no need for quarantine, but they should wear masks for 10 days and get tested five days after exposure unless they are showing symptoms.
Dr. Allison Arwady, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, suggests that those who have been vaccinated and boosted and are still cautious can take an additional test seven days after exposure. If they have already taken a test at five days and it is negative and they feel well, it is unlikely they will have any issues.
According to Dr. Arwady, a COVID-19 test is not necessary after seven days following exposure for those who are vaccinated and boosted. If they want to be extra careful, they can get tested at 10 days, but in most cases, they are likely in the clear after seven days. However, for those who are not vaccinated or boosted, testing at five days after exposure and possibly again at seven or 10 days is recommended for their safety.
What Are The Test Accuracy?
It is important to remember that COVID-19 tests are not perfect and can sometimes produce false results. A negative test result does not guarantee that you do not have COVID-19, so it is important to follow health guidelines and take precautions.
A positive test result does not mean you are sick with COVID-19, it simply means that you have been exposed and should self-quarantine and get retested.
How to Stay Safe to Avoid the Symptoms?
Importance in Preventing Spread: Wearing a mask is crucial in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Make sure to wear a mask in public places, especially when it is difficult to maintain a physical distance from others.
Frequent Hand Washing with Soap and Water: Make sure to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use of Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.
Importance of Following Health Guidelines: Regardless of the test result, it is important to continue following health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Summary:
In sum, The article discusses the information on when to get tested and retested after exposure to COVID-19. According to the CDC, it is recommended to get tested within 5-7 days after exposure, self-quarantine for 14 days, and retest even if the first test is negative. If experiencing symptoms, get tested immediately. The incubation period for COVID-19 can range from 2-14 days. For those who have received the booster shot or are fully vaccinated, testing is recommended 5 days after exposure and potentially again at 7 or 10 days. It is important to note that COVID-19 tests are not perfect and false results may occur. Wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and following health guidelines are crucial in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
“Keep in mind that while we search for a vaccine, the battle against COVID-19 continues. It is crucial to remain safe and abide by the guidelines, taking necessary precautions consistently to defeat the virus.”
And as Jair Bolsonaro, President of Brazil, said: ‘We will beat COVID-19 but it requires each of us to do our part and follow the guidelines.’
