PCR COVID-19 Test: How and When to Use

A clean, sterile swab (a thin plastic stick with a soft end, like a cotton bud) is used to collect secretions from up your nose. The swab is moved around for 5 seconds in each nostril. This can be uncomfortable, make your eyes water, or make you gag.

The swab then goes into a sealed test tube and gets sent to a laboratory to do the PCR testing. It takes between 24 to 72 hours to come back.

PCR tests can remain positive for up to 90 days after a COVID-19 infection, even after you have recovered and are no longer contagious. This is because the test can detect genetic material left behind by the virus.

If you have had COVID-19 within the past 90 days and develop new symptoms, a rapid antigen test is generally recommended instead of another PCR test.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, such as a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a change in your sense of smell or taste, then you should consider getting a PCR test, either at a local test site or by ordering a kit online.

Both PCR and rapid antigen tests can detect COVID-19. If an at-home antigen test is negative, repeat testing may be needed because a single negative result does not rule out infection.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, stay home until your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Take additional precautions for the next 5 days, such as wearing a well-fitting mask and avoiding close contact with people at higher risk of serious illness.

ou do not necessarily need to see a healthcare provider to get a COVID-19 test. Testing may be available through pharmacies, healthcare providers, and testing centers.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you are at higher risk of severe COVID-19, since antiviral treatments work best when started early. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or other serious symptoms.